Rhesus (Rh) Typing
Definition
The Rhesus (Rh) system classifies blood by the presence
or absence of the Rh (D) antigen on the surface of RBC’s.
In this test, a patient’s RBCs are mixed with serum
containing anti-Rh (D) antibodies and are observed for
clumping. If clumping occurs, the Rh (D) antigen is
present, and the patient’s blood is typed Rh positive; if
clumping doesn’t occur, the antigen is absent, and the
patient’s blood is typed Rh-negative.
Purpose
▪ To establish blood type according to the Rh system.
▪ To help determine the donor’s compatibility before
transfusion.
▪ To determine if the patient will require an Rh (D)
immune globulin injection.
Procedure
Patient Preparation
1. Confirm the patient’s identity using two patient
identifiers according to facility policy.
Definition
The Rhesus (Rh) system classifies blood by the presence
or absence of the Rh (D) antigen on the surface of RBC’s.
In this test, a patient’s RBCs are mixed with serum
containing anti-Rh (D) antibodies and are observed for
clumping. If clumping occurs, the Rh (D) antigen is
present, and the patient’s blood is typed Rh positive; if
clumping doesn’t occur, the antigen is absent, and the
patient’s blood is typed Rh-negative.
Purpose
▪ To establish blood type according to the Rh system.
▪ To help determine the donor’s compatibility before
transfusion.
▪ To determine if the patient will require an Rh (D)
immune globulin injection.
Procedure
Patient Preparation
1. Confirm the patient’s identity using two patient
identifiers according to facility policy.
