Universal blood donor?

Appeared in: AIIMS Delhi NO- 2019

Explanation

Individuals with O-negative blood are known as universal donors.
Their red blood cells (RBCs) lack A, B, and Rh antigens on their surface.
Because there are no antigens, the recipient's immune system does not produce an antibody reaction against the transfused blood.
This makes O-negative blood safe for transfusion to patients of any blood type, which is critical in emergency situations.

Option B: AB +ve blood is the universal recipient, not the universal donor. Its red blood cells have both A and B antigens, as well as the Rh antigen, so it can only be donated to other AB +ve individuals.
Option C: A +ve blood has A and Rh antigens on its red blood cells. It can only be donated to individuals with A+ or AB+ blood types.
Option D: B +ve blood has B and Rh antigens on its red blood cells. It can only be donated to individuals with B+ or AB+ blood types.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Knowing Blood group systems and transfusion compatibility helps nurses interpret findings accurately and avoid errors in routine assessment, medication administration, and patient teaching.
In emergency settings, such as trauma or massive hemorrhage, O-negative blood is transfused when the patient's blood type is unknown to prevent a fatal transfusion reaction.
Nurses play a critical role in ensuring patient safety during transfusions by verifying blood product compatibility (cross-matching) and monitoring the patient for signs of a transfusion reaction (e.g., fever, chills, hives, shortness of breath).
What if? If a patient is Rh-negative (e.g., A-negative) and receives Rh-positive blood (e.g., A-positive), their body will develop anti-Rh antibodies. While the first transfusion may not cause a major reaction, subsequent transfusions with Rh-positive blood will trigger a severe hemolytic reaction.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core concept of the question, which is 'universal blood donor'.
Recall the principles of the ABO and Rh blood group systems.
Remember that 'universal donor' refers to the blood type that can be safely given to people of all other blood types because it lacks antigens that would trigger an immune response.
Evaluate each option: O-negative blood has no A, B, or Rh antigens. AB-positive has A, B, and Rh antigens. A-positive has A and Rh antigens. B-positive has B and Rh antigens.
Conclude that O-negative is the only blood type that meets the criteria for a universal donor.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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