Question | Answer |
What does blood typing involve? | Identifying protein substances called antigens present in red blood cell membranes. |
What is the term "agglutination" in blood typing? | If a particular antibody contracts a corresponding antigen, a reaction occres, and the red blood cells clump together |
What is the final check on blood compatibility before transfusions? | A cross-matching test occurs. |
What happens in a cross-matching test? | Small samples of blood from donor and the recipient are mixed to be sure agglutiation (clumping) doe NOT create a transfusion reaction. |
What antigen is checked for the Rh factor? | D antigen |
What may be the result of when an Rh - pregnant women may obtain some RBCs from an Rh + fetus during the birth process or during miscarrage? | Mother would begin producing anti-D antibodies, creating complications for the second and future pregnancies |
What is the condition called when the mom produces anti-D antibodies creating complications for second and future pregnancies? | Hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (erythroblastosis fetali) |
How can erythroblastosis fetails be prevented? | Proper administration of RhoGAM, which prevents the mother from producing anti-D antibodies. |