Which action should be taken for a unit of blood labeled group A, Rh-negative that has specific test results?

The appropriate action to take for a unit of blood labeled group A, Rh-negative that has specific test results is to notify the collecting facility. This is important because discrepancies between the labeled blood group and the test results may indicate potential errors in labeling or blood component preparation. Ensuring the accuracy of blood type is crucial for patient safety during transfusions, as administering an incompatible blood type can lead to serious, potentially life-threatening reactions.

By contacting the collecting facility, you can initiate a thorough investigation to confirm the test results and validate the blood type of the unit. This step is essential to maintain the integrity of the blood supply and ensure that patients receive the correct blood type when they are in need of a transfusion.

While transfusing the unit as group A, Rh-negative might seem reasonable at first glance, it would not be prudent to do so without confirming the accuracy of the test results. Similarly, the option to transfuse as group A, Rh-positive could lead to severe complications if the unit is, in fact, Rh-negative. Discarding the unit without proper investigation would not only waste a potentially usable blood product but could also prevent timely transfusion for a patient who needs it. Thus, notifying the collecting facility is the most responsible and safe