cthherbal

We do 3-part DATs in gel only. Polyspecific, IgG and Buffer cards. Beautiful reactions, clear cut.
For the buffer cards we do 50 uL cells (0.8%) and 25 uL of the anti-C3b, C3d (Immucor).
Pos QC = Complement Control Cells
Neg QC = A2 cells.
We normally use Immucor Complement Control Cells but with the recent shortage, we validated Hemobioscience which works just as well.
No problems with CAP surveys.

Aww, thanks for the snowflakes, Cliff!

Annual (in NJ)

Yes I am an AABB Assessor and I believe this is what most think it isn't. I know a reference lab and I worked in a Transfusion Service in a hospital where there were work stations and each station's equipment was ID'd with which reagent rack, heat block, cell washer, etc. being used. If you are a smaller lab and can get by with having 1 of everything in use then do that. Then when you have a problem and your backups are put into use, you have a mechanism to document this. I seem to remember this being more of an FDA thing but of all the agencies I think AABB is the most aligned with the FDA requirements.

Eagle Eye you are correct in that it depends on the state. In NJ APNs can order blood products independently, but PAs require co-signature by the physician.

I would have done the same as you. In fact I did this week on a patient with anti-E, -K -HLA (historical) and only the K cells reacted on straight panel in gel. E reacted with ficin-treated only. 2 extra E, K neg cells reacted but everything ruled out and E, K neg units were full XM compatible.

There is a 2009 WBIT Blood Bank Safety Practices report from CAP.  I have attached it here.  Hope this helps.
2009-WBIT-CP.pdf