Transfusion Service Serology: Why Do We Do What We Do?
Program Code: 125-TC
Saturday, October 23, 2004
2:00 PM to 5:30 PM (ET)

SPEAKERS
George Garratty, PhD, FRCPath, American Red Cross Blood Services
W. John Judd, FIBMS, MIBiol, University of Michigan Hospitals
Susan Johnson, MSTM, MT(ASCP)SBB, BloodCenter of Wisconsin

DESCRIPTION
This program features three well-known and experienced speakers who will address the following areas of concern for transfusion services: clinical significance and possible transfusion with incompatible blood, relevance of validation testing and appropriateness of serologic testing. At the end of the presentations, there will be a lively panel discussion by the faculty regarding the topics presented and any questions the attendees may have. Don`t miss the opportunity to have your questions answered by the experts!

OBJECTIVES

• List three definitions of "clinically significant" and three approaches for determining whether patients can be transfused with incompatible blood
• Discuss the relevance of validation testing in immunohematology
• Describe factors to consider in determining what serologic testing is appropriate
• Identify "appropriate" methods for ABO, Rh typing, antibody detection and identification, compatibility testing, direct antiglobulin testing, elution techniques and cord blood testing that meet the needs of your laboratory

AUDIENCE
Physicians, Technologists, Managers/Supervisors

PROGRAM LEVEL
Intermediate