BLOOD ORDERING IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY - RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE TYPE AND SCREEN

  • 1 January 1983
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 62  (2) , 236-240
Abstract
The number of units of blood preoperatively crossmatched to the number of units transfused was studied retrospectively in patients undergoing 4 common obstetric and gynecologic procedures. Associated medical problems and the timing of and reasons for transfusions were evaluated. Patients with risk factors associated with an increased incidence of required transfusion were identified. A type and screen method for preoperative blood ordering is recommended for most patients undergoing cesarean section, abdominal hysterectomy and vaginal hysterectomy. Using this method, sera are preoperatively tested for unexpected antibodies and ABO/Rh typing is done. If the antibody screen is negative, crossmatching is not done. Should a transfusion be ordered, crossmatching can be done in 20 min, or type-specific blood can be available after a 15-s saline spin. Through application of the type and screen method, a substantial savings in money and laboratory personnel time can be expected without compromising patient care.