3cardmoe

Our method here is as A McCord's -
 
If the ECHO solid phase is positive with all 3 cells, we run a Capture R Ready ID (to check for high frequency or multiple ABs) and a Solid phase DAT.  (We want to see what solid phase is trying to tell us 1st, before dropping the sensitivity of the test system.)
 
If that is all positive too, we set up 3 trios in tubes,
1 - in PEG, 1 - in LISS (N-Hance) and 1 - no enhancement media/ 1 hour incubation (saline).
We will do all furthur work and crossmatching in the 1st of these test systems that comes up negative.  If they are all still positive - off it goes to the reference lab.
 
PEG is the best tube enhancement media to back up solid phase testing - it is the only one close to solid phase sensitivity.  But, it can still be sensitive to warms and colds.  You still need to have LISS and 1 hr/no enhancement to see under some of these problems.  If you already have tube testing as one of your formats, it doesn't take much to keep some LISS around too.
With PEG, it is very important to emphasize with all generalist training that you DO NOT read PEG after the 37C incubation - you wash it 1st and read only with IgG.  If you have problems getting them to remeber that - eliminate the 37C read in LISS too and just read everything at coombs phase only.
 
This system works pretty well, we have seen underlying antibodies a few times.  It also saves a lot of shipments to the refence labs.  Good Luck

I would suggest your best option would be to contact other blood suppliers and see what they are willing to do for you.  Most of us do not have the option of shopping around. 
 
I would love to get into a discussion about CFOs but I'm afraid Cliff would burn my membership so I think I'll refrain.

We extend our PAT samples no more than 14 days and we don't recollect unless the date of surgey is outside that range. Per protocol we set up two units for a T&S that is positive so personally for me I find it beneficial to find out ahead of time if a patient has a positive screen to avoid any surprises and delays when the patient is on the table.

We extend our PAT samples no more than 14 days and we don't recollect unless the date of surgey is outside that range. Per protocol we set up two units for a T&S that is positive so personally for me I find it beneficial to find out ahead of time if a patient has a positive screen to avoid any surprises and delays when the patient is on the table.