ABO Group / Rh Typing and Antibody Screen (Type and Screen)

Test description

The type and screen are the primary pre-transfusion tests performed. Testing includes the determination of patient's ABO group, RhD type, and a screen for the detection of atypical antibodies. Additional testing for red cell antibody identification is performed when atypical antibodies are detected.

ABO Group/Rh Typing and Antibody Screen (Type and Screen) (PDF)

Test Catalogue

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Specimen and requisition requirements

Specimen:
Adults and Children: One (1) full 5-7 ml EDTA (lavender) tube mixed thoroughly by gentle agitation.
Infants: 1ml EDTA (lavender) tube OR 2 microtainer tubes with 500 microlitres per tube mixed thoroughly by gentle agitation. 

Label specimen with the required minimum information: patient’s last name, first name, PHIN or hospital number or other unique identifier, date of collection, facility name, and phlebotomist initials.

Complete Requisition (must include):

  • Patient's last name, first name, date of birth and PHIN or hospital number or other unique identifier
  • Facility Name
  • Physician/Health Care Provider name
  • Phlebotomist name, classification, initial
  • Date/time  of collection
  • Name, facility, address, contact number of individual to whom the report will be sent

Requisitions

Request for Pre-transfusion Testing (PDF) 
(Electronic Fillable Form)

Request for Blood Components (PDF) 
(Electronic Fillable Form)

Pre-shipping storage

Recommended Refrigeration 1-10°C.

Shipping instructions

Submit samples as soon as possible after collection.

Shipping

Ship in a container that will maintain temperature at ≥1°C.
Select shipping method for container to arrive at testing site within 48 hours.

Note: Protect from freezing.

Send to 

Canadian Blood Services
Winnipeg Centre
Crossmatch Laboratory
777 William Ave.
Winnipeg, MB R3E 3R4
Tel: 204-789-1085 
Fax: 204-779-8593