In an emergency when the ABO group and Rh type cannot be determined, what should the technologist release for a known A, Rh-negative patient?

In an emergency situation where the ABO group and Rh type of a patient cannot be determined, releasing O-Rh-negative red blood cells is appropriate because O-negative blood is considered the universal donor for red blood cells. This means that it can be safely transfused to patients of any ABO blood type without the risk of causing a hemolytic reaction due to ABO incompatibility.

For an A, Rh-negative patient, this choice allows for immediate blood support while minimizing the risk of adverse reactions. Releasing O-Rh-negative units ensures that the recipient will not have antibodies against the red cells being transfused, as O blood lacks A and B antigens. While A-Rh-negative blood would be a suitable match for an A, Rh-negative patient, it cannot be given until the patient’s blood type is confirmed, as higher risk exists in potentially misclassifying a type for someone with a different blood group.

Other options like refusing to release any blood would create delays in patient care, which could be detrimental in an emergency. Releasing O Rh-positive red blood cells would introduce the possibility of Rh incompatibility, which would be dangerous for an Rh-negative patient. Therefore, releasing O-Rh-negative red blood cells is the most prudent and safe choice in