Before transfusion, the lab:

1.      Tests your blood to confirm your ABO group (A, B, AB or O) and Rh type (positive or negative).

2.     Screens for antibodies that might react with certain donor blood.

3.     Selects donor units that are compatible with your blood type.

4.     Performs cross‑matching: mixing a small sample of your blood with a sample from the donor unit to check for reactions in the lab.

At the bedside, nurses and doctors:

·       Double‑check your identity (name, hospital number, wristband).

·       Confirm that the label on the blood bag matches your details and the doctor’s order.

Only after all these checks is the transfusion started.