MEDL 203 - Immunohematology Techniques

1. Explain the blood collection process.
2. Cite the preparation method, use, storage requirements, and expiration of each blood component.
3. Apply the theoretical knowledge of immunology and complement to testing performed in the transfusion service.
4. Explain the principle of each testing procedure performed in Immunohematology.
5. Demonstrate an understanding of genetics as it applies to Immunohematology by interpreting a Punnett square.
6. Indicate the characteristics of the ABO, Rh and other blood group system antigens and antibodies.
7. Evaluate patient Blood Bank results, recognizing discrepant results and providing potential resolution of the problem.
8. List the methods used to identify the most commonly encountered blood group antibodies.
9. Describe the three types of hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn, antibody specificity involved, testing to identify the specificity, and treatment for each.
10. Interpret the adverse complications of blood transfusion and state the cause, and if appropriate, treatment of each.
11. Review the methods for evaluating a positive direct antiglobulin test.
12. Classify the types of immune hemolytic anemia including results of serologic testing and compatibility testing which must be performed.
13. Cite the requirements for performing compatibility testing and providing transfusion support for organ transplants.
14. Describe the quality control which must be done including the specific tests, frequency of testing, and steps to take when the quality control is outside of the required limits.
15. Outline the immune process as it relates to Immunohematology.
16. Interpret eligible donor criteria and accurately determine donor eligibility when given results of donor screening tests.
17. Explain the preparation and indicate the appropriate use of blood components by determining the component needed based on laboratory data.
18. Identify and describe the characteristics of the antigens and antibodies of the ABO, Rh, and other blood group systems and apply this knowledge to sample testing and case study material.
19. Perform and apply knowledge of principles and theories in the performance of routine blood bank procedures utilized in pre-transfusion testing.
20. Perform and demonstrate an understanding for intermediate level blood bank testing in the resolution of antibody problems, hemolytic disease of the newborn, and transfusion reaction work-ups.
21. Apply the principles, theories, and practical information from previous MEDL courses.

Lecture Content:

• Introduction/Review Standard Precautions
• Donor Screening and Component Preparation
• Fundamentals of Immunology
• Blood Groups and Serologic Testing
• Basic Genetics
• The ABO Blood Group System
• The Rh Blood Group System
• Detection and Identification of Antibodies
• Pretransfusion Testing
• The Antiglobulin Test
• Hemolytic Disease of the Newborn
• Adverse Effects of Blood Transfusion

Laboratory Content:

• Suggested Topics/Activities
• Donor History/Donor Physical
• ABO and Rh Typing
• Rh Phenotyping
• Type and Screen
• Crossmatch Procedure
• ID Antibody
• DAT
• Elution
• Rh Workup
• Delayed Reactions