Name of the Procedure:

Pretreatment of Serum for Use in RBC Antibody Identification; Differential Red Cell Absorption Using Patient RBCs or RBCs of Known Phenotype, Each Absorption

Summary

This procedure involves preparing a patient's blood to identify specific antibodies by mixing their serum with red blood cells of known phenotypes. This helps in tracking down problematic antibodies that could cause reactions during blood transfusions.

Purpose

The procedure is used to pinpoint problematic antibodies in a patient's blood, particularly when they need a transfusion. By identifying these antibodies, healthcare providers can ensure that the patient receives compatible blood, preventing adverse reactions.

Indications

This procedure is recommended for patients who:

• Have had previous transfusions
• Are preparing for surgery that may require a blood transfusion
• Show symptoms of hemolytic reactions or hemolytic anemia
• Have a history of multiple pregnancies and may have developed antibodies

Preparation

Patients typically do not need any special preparation such as fasting. However, recent blood transfusion history should be noted and shared with the healthcare provider. A blood sample is required for the procedure, usually taken at the clinic or hospital lab.

Procedure Description

1. A blood sample is taken from the patient.
2. The patient's serum is separated from the red cells.
3. The serum is then mixed with red blood cells of known phenotypes under controlled conditions.

4. Observations are made to see which red blood cells the serum reacts against to identify the antibodies present.

   Tools: Centrifuge, test tubes, pipettes, and red blood cells of known phenotype. No anesthesia or sedation is required as it is a laboratory procedure.

Duration

The process usually takes a few hours, depending on the complexity and number of antibodies being identified.

Setting

This procedure is performed in a hospital laboratory or a specialized diagnostic lab.

Personnel

• Medical Laboratory Technologists
• Blood Bank Specialists
• Pathologists (for interpretation of complex cases)

Risks and Complications

The risks are minimal as it is a laboratory-based procedure. Possible complications are rare but may include:

• Misidentification of antibodies due to technical errors
• Delayed results due to complex antibody profiles

Benefits

The main benefit is the accurate identification of antibodies, ensuring safer blood transfusions. Patients typically see the benefit immediately upon receiving properly matched blood.

Recovery

There is no recovery period for this diagnostic procedure. Patients can go about their normal activities immediately after the blood sample is taken.

Alternatives

Other methods include enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or molecular testing for genotyping. However, differential red cell absorption is often more precise for complex antibody identifications.

Patient Experience

The patient may experience minor discomfort from the blood draw, similar to standard blood tests. No pain is associated with the laboratory process itself. Comfort measures include using a local anesthetic cream for the draw site if needed.