What is the standard approach when there is only one ABO determination on file for a patient requiring red blood cell transfusion?

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Multiple Choice

What is the standard approach when there is only one ABO determination on file for a patient requiring red blood cell transfusion?

When only one ABO determination is on file, the priority is to avoid an ABO-incompatible transfusion. O-type red blood cells are the safest choice because they lack A and B antigens, so they won’t trigger anti-A or anti-B antibodies in the recipient. If possible, use O negative units in an emergent situation to also limit exposure to the D antigen and reduce Rh-related risks. This approach buys time to complete full ABO/Rh typing and crossmatching, after which group-specific units can be used. Choosing AB red cells would risk a severe hemolytic reaction if the recipient has anti-A or anti-B antibodies. Delaying transfusion or waiting for a complete ABO determination when there is an urgent need is not appropriate, and using group-specific cells before the ABO status is fully confirmed could cause incompatibility.

When only one ABO determination is on file, the priority is to avoid an ABO-incompatible transfusion. O-type red blood cells are the safest choice because they lack A and B antigens, so they won’t trigger anti-A or anti-B antibodies in the recipient. If possible, use O negative units in an emergent situation to also limit exposure to the D antigen and reduce Rh-related risks. This approach buys time to complete full ABO/Rh typing and crossmatching, after which group-specific units can be used.

Choosing AB red cells would risk a severe hemolytic reaction if the recipient has anti-A or anti-B antibodies. Delaying transfusion or waiting for a complete ABO determination when there is an urgent need is not appropriate, and using group-specific cells before the ABO status is fully confirmed could cause incompatibility.

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