Blood banking is the process that takes place in the lab to make sure that donated blood, or blood products, are safe before they are used in blood transfusions and other medical procedures. Blood banking includes typing the blood for transfusion and testing for infectious diseases.
Who are the blood donors?
Most blood donors are volunteers. However, sometimes, a patient may want to donate blood a couple of weeks before undergoing surgery, so that his or her blood is available in case of a blood transfusion. Donating blood for yourself is called an autologous donation. Volunteer blood donors must pass certain criteria, including the following:
Must be at least 16 years of age, or in accordance with state law
Must be in good health
Must weigh at least 110 pounds
Must pass the physical and health history exam given before donation
Some states permit people younger than 16 or 17 years to donate blood, with parental consent.
What tests are done in blood banking?
A certain set of standard tests are done in the lab once blood is donated, including, but not limited to, the following:
Typing: ABO group (blood type)
Rh typing (positive or negative antigen)
Screening for any unexpected red blood cell antibodies that may cause problems in the recipient
Screening for current or past infections, including:
What are the blood types?
O Rh-positive - 39%
A Rh-positive - 31%
B Rh-positive - 9%
O Rh-negative - 9%
A Rh-negative - 6%
AB Rh-positive - 3%
B Rh-negative - 2%
AB Rh-negative - 1%
What are the components of blood
While blood, or one of its components, may be transferred, each component serves many functions, including the following:
Red blood cells-: These cells carry oxygen to the tissues in the body and are commonly used in the treatment of anemia.
Platelets-: They help the blood to clot and are used in the treatment of leukemia and other forms of cancer.
White blood cells-: These cells help to fight infection, and aid in the immune process.
Plasma-: The watery, liquid part of the blood in which the red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets are suspended. Plasma is needed to carry the many parts of the blood through the bloodstream.