Blood Groups
Erythrocytes contain antigens called agglutinogens or isoantigens which are genetically determined. At least, 300 blood group systems may be detected on red blood cells’ surface. However, the focus is on 2 major classifications of blood groups, namely the ABO Blood Grouping System and the Rhesus System.
ABO Blood Grouping System
- there are 2 types of agglutinogens: Agglutinogen A and Agglutinogen B
- individuals with red blood cells containing Agglutinogen A have a Blood Type A
- individuals with red blood cells containing Agglutinogen B have a Blood Type B
- individuals with red blood cells containing both Agglutinogen A and B have Blood Type AB
- individuals with red blood cells containing NO Agglutinogen A and NO Agglutinogen B have Blood Type O
The BLOOD PLASMA contains antibodies called agglutinins or isoantibodies.
- Agglutinin A attacks Agglutinogen A
- Agglutinin B attacks Agglutinogen B
Rhesus (Rh) System
- the Rh system is based on the presence (or lack of) of agglutinogens which can be found on the surfaces of erythrocytes
- individuals with red blood cells containing Rh agglutinogens are said to be Rh+
- individuals with red blood cells containing NO Rh agglutinogens are said to be Rh-
Blood Transfusions
Blood transfusions are commonly indicated for circulatory shock, anaemia (lack of healthy red blood cells leading to inadequate oxygen distribution to the body’s tissues), haemophilia (bleeding disorder, usually inherited, with an improper blood clotting mechanism), and haemolytic disease of the newborn (a disease in which there is fast destruction of red blood cells).
Incompatible blood transfusions may cause very bad consequences such as kidney damage, brain damage, and even death.
Further Information…
Red Cell Concentrates – indicated for anaemia and acute blood loss: help increase oxygen carrying capacity through raising haemoglobin concentration in the patient. Can be stored in a temperature of 4 +/-2°C for 42 days (or for 28 days if irradiated). If unused or left for more than 30 minutes in the transport box, Red Cell Concentrates should be returned to the Blood Bank to minimise the risk of bacterial growth.
CMV (CytoMegaloVirus) Negative Blood: indicated for intrauterine transfusions, neonate transfusion (28 days post EDD) and pregnant women transfusion.
Irradiated Blood: indicated for intrauterine transfusion, BM/ stem cell transplantation, Hodgkin’s disease, etc.
For more details on the administration of blood and blood components click here.
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Claire is keen about public education on health-related subjects as well as holistic patient-centered care. She is also passionate about spreading awareness on the negative effects that domestic abuse leaves on its victims’ mental, emotional, social and physical wellbeing.
Claire aspires to continue studying following completion of her Nursing Degree, because she truly believes in lifelong education.
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