Blood Testing For Transfusion
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Your child’s provider has ordered some lab tests to check your child’s blood type. For safety reasons, our hospital’s policy is to test blood samples from 2 different collections to make sure that blood matching your child’s type is available in case it is needed for your child’s care.
Why does my child need two samples for transfusion?
Your child’s safety is our number one priority. The safest transfusion is one that is provided after 2 samples are tested to be sure the blood type is correct.
Does everyone need two samples for transfusion?
No. Babies less than 4 months of age do not need 2 samples before they have a blood transfusion. Everyone else needs 2 samples.
What if I have questions about the blood testing?
If you still have questions about blood transfusion testing, please ask your child’s healthcare provider or call the Seattle Children’s Transfusion Nurse Consultant at 206-987-5013.
To Learn More
- Seattle Children's Transfusion Nurse Consultant at
206-987-5013 - Ask your child’s healthcare provider
- seattlechildrens.org/patient-education
Free Interpreter Services
- In the hospital, ask your nurse.
- From outside the hospital, call the toll-free Family Interpreting Line, 1-866-583-1527. Tell the interpreter the name or extension you need.
