Type and screen
Formal Definition
Pre-transfusion testing that determines a patient's ABO blood group and Rh type, and screens serum for unexpected antibodies against red cell antigens.
How It's Used on the Ward
"T&S" — ordered when transfusion is possible but not certain. "Type and cross" (or crossmatch) means you're actively preparing specific units.
Example
""GI bleed with Hgb 7.2 and active melena — type and cross for 2 units pRBCs now, and get IR on the phone.""
Clinical Context
The distinction matters: type and screen = we might need blood. Type and crossmatch = prepare specific units now. A crossmatch takes 45–60 minutes; O-negative universal donor blood is used in emergencies before the crossmatch returns. In massive hemorrhage, activate the MTP (massive transfusion protocol).
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