Anatomy & Physiology Hematological #6

Question

Which type of blood can be donated and safely administered to the patient with type O negative blood?

Answers

1. O positive
   • Rationale:

     Type O positive blood could potentially cause a reaction for the patient with type O negative blood.

2. O negative
   • Rationale:

     Individuals with type O negative blood have no antigens. While this individual can donate blood to all patients regardless of blood type, they can only receive type O negative blood to avoid the risk of experiencing a potentially life-threatening transfusion reaction.

3. AB positive
   • Rationale:

     Type AB positive blood is not safe to administer to the patient with type O negative blood.

4. AB negative
   • Rationale:

     Type AB negative blood cannot be safely administered to the patient with type O negative blood.

Overview

An individual blood type is classified by the absence, or presence, of antibodies and inherited substances located on the surface of RBCs.

Explanation

Learning Outcomes

Individuals with type O blood have no antigens; therefore, they are the universal donor. Rh factor also plays a role in compatibility. Rh factor is a protein; those who have it are Rh positive and those without it are Rh negative. Therefore, an individual with type O negative blood can only receive blood from an individual with the same exact blood type to avoid a potentially life-threatening transfusion reaction.

Test Taking Tip

Consider the different blood types and how they are classified, including antibodies, antigens, and proteins when determining the correct choice for this question.

Video Rationale