What are nucleic acid tests (NATs) primarily used for in blood banking?

Nucleic acid tests (NATs) are primarily utilized in blood banking for the detection of viral infections, such as HIV and Hepatitis C, in donated blood. These tests work by identifying the presence of viral genetic material (RNA or DNA) in blood samples, allowing for the early detection of infections that may not be evident through other testing methods. This is crucial as it helps ensure the safety of the blood supply by identifying potentially infectious donations before they can be issued to patients.

The ability of NATs to detect these viruses during the "window period"—the time after infection but before antibodies are produced—greatly enhances the screening process and reduces the risk of transfusion-transmitted infections. Consequently, this implementation significantly improves the overall safety of blood products, leading to better patient outcomes.