What is the significance of type and screen testing before a transfusion?

The significance of type and screen testing before a transfusion lies in its ability to determine a recipient's blood type and screen for unexpected antibodies in their serum. This process is crucial because it ensures compatibility between the donor's blood and the recipient's blood, which minimizes the risk of transfusion reactions.

When the blood type is determined, it identifies whether the recipient has A, B, AB, or O blood type, along with their Rh factor (positive or negative). Screening for unexpected antibodies helps identify any antibodies that could react against the transfused blood's antigens. This step is critical since the presence of such antibodies could lead to hemolytic transfusion reactions, which can be dangerous and life-threatening.

By correctly identifying both blood type and the presence of antibodies, healthcare providers can select appropriate blood products that are safer for transfusion, thereby enhancing patient safety and improving transfusion outcomes.