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Test Code TYPESCRN Type and Screen

Additional Codes

LAB276

Additional Information/Important Notes

Proper identification and specimen labelling is critical to safe blood transfusions as most hemolytic transfusion reactions result from errors in sample or patient identification.

  • A blood bank banded specimen for possible transfusion can only be drawn by RN’s, phlebotomists, physicians, and lab techs that are employed at CPH. They must be at the hospital. Clinic and EMS draws for blood bank banded specimens will not be accepted. The 2nd verifier can be any CPH staff member who has been trained in proper patient identification. 
  • Two qualified persons must do the following together at the patient’s bedside or drawing station. Both parties are equally responsible for the accuracy of the information on the sample, and both will be held accountable for any errors.

Collection Method

Venipuncture

Minimum Volume

4ml

Container

6ml Purple Top EDTA

Acceptable Specimens

EDTA Whole Blood

Reference or Target Ranges

ABO Typing: A, B, AB or O

Rh: Positive or Negative

Antibody Screen:  Negative

Reportable Units

ABO Typing: A, B, AB or O

Rh: Positive or Negative

Antibody Screen: Positive or Negative

Critical Value

Positive antibody screen

Reasons for Rejection

  • Blood bank specimens are not like other specimens. The AABB Standard states that “the transfusion service shall accept only those samples that are completely, accurately, and legibly labeled.”
  •  The incorrect EPIC label is unacceptable: e.g. CBCD, CMP
  •  A patient chart label is not acceptable for a blood bank specimen.
  •  Failure to have two initials on the EPIC label will require a recollect.
  •  TWO labels on a blood bank banded specimen is unacceptable.
  • The barcoded blood bank sticker and band cannot be added after the specimen has been sent down to the lab.
  • Grossly hemolyzed specimens will be rejected.
  • NOTE: If the time of collection is incorrect, the collector can come down to the lab and change it in the presence of the lab tech.

Specimen Stability

Ambient 72 Hours
Refrigerated (4°C to 8°C) 72 Hours
Frozen(-70°C to -20°C) N/A

Performance Information

Days and Time Performed 24/7
Expected Turn Around Time

Stat: within 60 minutes

Routine: within 4 hours of arrival in lab
 

Stat Availability Yes
Performing Bench CPH Blood Bank
Methodology/Method Description Ortho Gel Cards

CPT Codes

86850, 86900, 86901

Last review/edit date

March 2024

Reflex Testing

Positive antibody screen will reflex to Antibody Identification.

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