Maternal Routine Testing (ABO/Rh Typing/Antibody Screen)

Test description

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. If the antibody is clinically significant, a titration is done. Rh Immune Globulin (RhIG) treatment recommendations are provided.

Maternal Routine Testing ABORh - Typing Antibody Screen (PDF)

Test Catalogue

Locate a test

Testing Schedule

  • Rh unknown patients: For patient’s first pregnancy, order testing at initial visit and at 26-28 weeks.
  • Known Rh positive patients: Order testing at initial visit.
  • Known Rh negative patients: Order testing at initial visit, 26-28 weeks, and postpartum.

IMPORTANT
For Rh negative patients, the 26-28 week sample must be collected prior to RhIG administration.

Specimen and requisition requirements

Specimen:
Two (2) 5ml EDTA (lavender) tube, mixed thoroughly by gentle agitation.

Label specimen with the required minimum information: patient’s last name, first name, PHN or unique identifier and date of collection.

Complete Requisition (must include):

  • Patient's last name, first name, date of birth and PHN or unique identifier
  • Expected date of delivery (EDD)
  • Clinic and Health Care Provider name, complete address, phone and fax number
  • Phlebotomist ID information
  • Date of collection

Requisition
Request for Perinatal Testing Requisition (PDF)

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
Saskatchewan Centre
Perinatal Receiving
2571 Broad Street
Regina, SK, S4P 3B4
Tel: 604-707-3434
Fax: 604-874-6582