1. We have validated antigen testing on gel for the Rh System, Fya/b, Jka/b, S, K1. 2. We do not do reverse typing for any ABO Rechecks (donors nor patients) ... and never have! Do request a copy of the reference for this citation. 3. We perform routine ABO/Rh/DAT on Cord Blood from Rh negative mothers. Testing should only be performed if it is clinically necessary. Why consider otherwise? Do we treat ABO Incompatibility (eg. Mom O, Baby A)? No, we don't ... so why chase it down? If the child is showing adverse symptoms of red cell destruction, the MD will order appropriate testing and we will go from there. Yes, this policy saves us a lot of time and money. Another money saver: Don't run full panels. The question in mind is 'Are there new antibodies?' First, rule out using the screening cells ... we use the homozygous cells to rule out only (nb. But Anti-K1 is ok to use heterozygous, not a dosage issue there). Then, select cells from the panel (and saved panels) to rule out the rest. It's not unusual for the techs here to run a panel of 1-2 cells to get to the answer needed. I have the screening cell sheets attached to the bottom of the panel sheet and make copies as worksheets. This way, the screening cells become part of the panel and part of the patient's file. Another ... if a patient has a demonstrable antibody, use the patient's serum/plasma to crossmatch FIRST. Then, perform Special Antigen Testing on only the compatible units. Patient plasma is $free.