ABO & RH type for Platelet recipients

[Tony R]

How often does the AABB and or the CAP require we retype patients receiving platelets? Our current policy (inpatients only) states that as long as we have a ABO & RH on the current billing number that we do not have to repeat the testing when providing platelets. When dealing with outpatients our policy is that they be redrawn for an ABO & RH on each admission requiring a platelet transfusion. A problem recently came up because our Cancer Treatment center gives outpatients a series billing number that is good for a week. Recently a patient came in early one week and returned that Friday. Since this is technically an out patient we requested a redraw as per our policy. This caused some disagreement between that blood bank and the Nursing staff, they insisted that the billing number was the same and didn't want to redraw the patient. So now we are reviewing ourpolicy. Any input would greatly be appreciated.

Thanks

[Michaele]

Our policy is if we have two blood types performed three days apart (or basically with two different specimens), then we do not have to retype the patient to give platelets.

[havatselet]

Our policy for platelets (and plasma and cryo) is one sample per admission, typed by one tech and confirmed by another. Blood bank samples from outpatients who have not been transfused or pregnant in the preceding three months may be used for 30 days.