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HelpTest Code LAB8034 RBC Request
Additional Codes
| Test Name in EPIC | EPIC Test Code | Mnemonic |
|---|---|---|
| Red Blood Cells | LAB8034 | RBC |
Useful For/Utility
Red Blood Cell transfusions are indicated:
1. Single unit RBC transfusions should be the standard for non-bleeding, hospitalized patients. Order one unit at a time with reassessment of Hemoglobin and clinical status prior to ordering additional units (exception for oncology outpatient transufsions).
2. Hgb ≤ 7 gm for stable hospitalized patients.
3. Acute blood loss not responding to adequate volume resuscitation
4. Hgb ≤ 8 gm for patients with pre-existing cardiovascular disease; oncology patients actively under treatment; or higher Hgb. Levels if symptoms are present.
5. Hgb ≤ 8 gm for perioperative surgical patients; higher Hgb. Levels if symptoms are present.
Methodology
Tube Testing/Gel Card Testing
Test Algorithm
Inpatients require a Type and Screen be completed within three days of the planned transfusion. Outpatient pre-surgical or infusion patients can be drawn up to 7 days in advance, provided they have not been pregnant or transfused in the last 3 months and do not have history of an antibody. Antibody history is easily visible in the Allergy section of EPIC under "Blood Group Specific Substance". Please review this detail prior to scheduling to limit any inconveniences for the patient. The Transfusion Services Department can be contacted at any time to help with scheduling type and screen collections for the outpatient setting. Emergency release of uncrossmatched RBCs can be requested but require a signed emergency release form signed by the requesting physician, indicating they felt the risks and benefits of uncrossmatched blood had been assessed. This signed form remains with the patients medical record.
Clinical Information
Red Blood Cells are transfused to increase oxygen-carrying capacity in patients with anemia in whom physiologic copensatory mechanisms are inadequate to maintain normal tissue oxygenation.
Specimen Requirements
Specimen must arrive within 72 hour of draw.
EDTA whole blood is required.
Specimen Type: EDTA whole blood
Container/Tube: Pink top (K2EDTA)
Specimen Volume: 6 mL
Specimen Minimum Volume: 5 mL
Collection Instructions: Send specimen in original tube.
Additional Information:
1. A current type & screen specimen is required for crossmatch before blood will be issued.
2. Include number of units requested and any special requirements.
Specimen Transport Temperature
Ambient/Refrigerate OK/Frozen NO
Day(s) Test Set Up
Upon request
Performing Laboratory
Transfusion Services-
St. Joseph's Medical Center Lab, Sandstone Hospital Lab, SMDC Clinical Lab, St. Mary's Hospital - Superior Lab, Virginia Hospital Lab, Deer River Hospital Lab, Northern Pines Hospital Lab, Moose Lake Hospital Lab, Ada Hospital Lab, Fargo Hospital Lab, Fosston Hospital Lab, St. Mary's - Detroit Lakes Hospital Lab, Holy Trinity Hospital Lab
Test Classification and CPT Coding
86920-Immediate spin crossmatch
86922-Antiglobulin crossmatch
Reference Values
Not applicable