What type of blood product is typically given in emergency situations?

In emergency situations, O-negative red blood cells are typically given because they are considered universal donors. This means that O-negative blood can be transfused to patients of any ABO blood type without the risk of an ABO incompatibility reaction. This is crucial in emergencies where there's not enough time to perform blood typing and crossmatching. O-negative blood is also Rh-negative, which makes it safer to give to Rh-positive patients without risking Rh sensitization.

O-negative red blood cells are often stocked in emergency departments and trauma centers precisely for such critical moments, allowing medical personnel to provide immediate care without delay. In contrast, other blood types may carry the risk of transfusion reactions if mismatch occurs or if the patient has formed antibodies against specific blood group antigens.