CLS 491 Immunohaematology & Transfusion Medicine

This course introduces the theory, practical application, technical performance and evaluation of blood bank procedures necessary for safe transfusion of blood and blood components. Students will be trained to perform patient specimen processing and pre-transfusion testing including blood ABO and Rh typing, antibody screening and antibody identification. They will learn to select compatible blood types for each blood component and perform required pre-transfusion compatibility testing for red blood cell transfusion. The course covers proper blood component processing, storage, and modifications of components such as thawing plasma or washing red blood cell units. It also emphasizes transfusion therapy practices, biochemistry, genetics, and serology of blood group systems as well as various quality assurance processes including daily quality control, including daily quality control, error reporting and the investigation of suspected transfusion reactions. Through case study presentations, students will develop problem-solving skills to address incompatible reactions and situations commonly encountered in a blood bank. Advanced techniques and current developments in stem cell transplant and cord blood banking will also be discussed such as HLA matching techniques and haemopoietic stem cell collection techniques.