Blood groups

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Blood Group Compatibility
We should all consider knowing our own, and family blood group; and donate blood.
When a transfusion is given, it is preferable for patients to receive blood and plasma of the same ABO and RhD group. However if the required blood type is unavailable, a patient may be given a product of an alternative but compatible group as shown below.

Patient Type Compatible Red Cell Types Compatible Plasma Types
(FFP & Cryoprecipitate)
A A, O A, AB
B B, O B, AB
O O O, A, B, AB
AB AB, A, B, O AB
RhD Positive RhD Positive
RhD Negative RhD Positive
RhD Negative
RhD Negative RhD Negative RhD Positive
RhD Negative
For information about compatible platelet products click http://www.rch.org.au/bloodtrans/about_blood_products/Platelet_transfusion.

Note that Group O RhD Negative (O negative) red cells have neither ABO nor RhD antigens on their surface. O RhD Negative red cells are issued in emergency situations where life saving transfusion is required prior to completion of a crossmatch. Both RCH and RWH blood banks maintain a reserve of 5 emergency O RhD Negative red cells. (Click http://www.rch.org.au/bloodtrans/blood_provision/Emergency_Blood_Release for further information on emergency blood release). Group O is often referred to as the universal red cell donor.

Group AB individuals have neither anti-A nor anti-B antibodies in their plasma. Group AB plasma can therefore be given to patients of any ABO blood group and is often referred to as the universal plasma donor.

From: http://www.rch.org.au/bloodtrans/about_blood_products/Blood_Groups_and_Compatibilities/
See also: http://www.bdwebguide.com/health/bloodgroup.htm
Donate blood: http://www.donateblood.com.au/
Submitted by Ian Johnson @ October 2014