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Transfusion Services Requirements for Emergency Rooms

The health and wellness of a patient depends on receiving the correct blood type during a transfusion, an activity that could prove harmful or fatal if not executed properly. The request for a transfusion of blood requires considerable accuracy and caution. A physician must have a thorough knowledge of the patient's condition, as well as other requirements, before making a request with any blood bank staff.

  1. Blood Transfusion Request

    • The physician responsible for the patient must request a transfusion of blood. This is necessary because blood is considered a drug. The physician has a choice between two requests: a request for type and screen or type and cross. For example, if a blood transfusion is urgently necessary, a physician will most likely request a type and cross, which would be available in a matter of hours.

      But if a blood transfusion isn't urgent, the physician will usually request a type and screen. Unless a definite order is placed, the blood bank staff will not make any blood available.

    Blood Sample Submission

    • A sample of the patient's blood must be sent to the blood bank staff. The staff will test the sample to determine if the donor and patient belong to the same blood group. If the recipient and donor bloods match, then the blood is ready to be shipped for a transfusion.

      The blood sample of both the recipient and donor are tested for Rh D antigen, which are antibodies on the red blood cells. This is important because Rh positive red blood cells cannot be given to recipients with Rh negative blood cells. The red blood cells would be destroyed.

    Patient Identification Form

    • To protect the patient from receiving the wrong blood type, the physician must fill out the appropriate request form. Fatal transfusions have been given to patients lacking proper identification, so the physician must include accurate information regarding the patient's identity. This information should include the patient's name, address, birthday, hospital index and location. The number of blood units must be made known, along with the transfusion date and the urgency of the situation. Every detail of the patient's diagnosis and treatment must be presented. The blood bank will refuse an inaccurate request form.

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