Maternal Routine Testing (ABO/Rh Typing/Antibody Screen)

Test description

Testing includes the determination of patient's ABO group, RhD type, and a screen for the detection of atypical antibodies. Additional testing for red cell antibody identification is performed when atypical antibodies are detected. If the antibody is clinically significant, a titration is done. Rh Immune Globulin (RhIG) treatment recommendations are provided.

Maternal Routine Testing ABORh Typing - Antibody Screen (PDF)

Test Catalogue

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Testing Schedule

  • Rh unknown patients: For patient’s first pregnancy, order testing at initial visit and at 26-28 weeks.
  • Known Rh positive patients: Order testing at initial visit.
  • Known Rh negative patients: Order testing at initial visit, 26-28 weeks, and postpartum.

IMPORTANT
For Rh negative patients, the 26-28 week sample must be collected prior to RhIG administration.

Specimen and requisition requirements

Specimen:
Two (2) full 5-7 ml EDTA (lavender) tubes mixed thoroughly by gentle agitation.

Label specimen with the required minimum information: patient’s last name, first name, PHIN or hospital number or other unique identifier, date of collection, facility name, and phlebotomist initials.

Complete Requisition (must include):

  • Patient's last name, first name, date of birth and PHIN or hospital number or other unique identifier
  • Expected date of delivery (EDD)
  • Facility Name
  • Physician/Health Care Provider name
  • Phlebotomist name, classification, initial
  • Date/time  of collection
  • Name, facility, address, contact number of individual to whom the report will be sent

Requisition

Request for Perinatal Testing (PDF)
(Electronic Fillable Form)

Pre-shipping storage

Recommended Refrigeration 1-10°C.

Shipping instructions

Submit samples as soon as possible after collection.
 

Shipping
Ship in a container that will maintain temperature at ≥1°C.
Select shipping method for container to arrive at testing site within 48 hours.
Note: Protect from freezing.

Send to

Canadian Blood Services
Winnipeg Centre
Perinatal Laboratory
777 William Ave.
Winnipeg, MB R3E 3R4
Tel: 204-789-1088
Fax: 204-789-1006