What is the primary purpose of performing a major crossmatch in blood banking?
A
To detect the presence of antibodies against the ABO blood group antigens
B
To identify the Rh blood type of the recipient
C
To ensure compatibility between the donor's red blood cells and the recipient's plasma
✓
D
To determine the presence of bacterial contamination in the blood product
Explanation
A major crossmatch is performed to ensure that the donor's red blood cells are compatible with the recipient's plasma, reducing the risk of an adverse transfusion reaction.
Source
American Association of Blood Banks (AABB) guidelines
Hematology
Hematology: Blood Grouping and Crossmatching
Hematology: Blood Grouping and Crossmatching
Easy
MEDICAL
Confidence: high