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:

One (1) 6 ml EDTA (lavender) tube, mixed thoroughly by gentle agitation.

Label specimen with the required minimum information: patient’s last name, first name, PHN or Unique Lifetime Identifier (ULI) and date of collection.

Complete Requisition (must include):

Patient's last name, first name, date of birth and PHN or ULI
Expected date of delivery (EDD)
Clinic and Health Care Provider name, complete address, phone and fax number
Phlebotomist ID information
Date of collection

Requisition(s)

Perinatal Testing for Red Blood Cell Serology (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
Edmonton Centre
8249 114 St NW
Edmonton, AB T6G 2R8
Attention: Diagnostic Services Perinatal Laboratory
Tel: 780-431-8765
Fax: 780-431-8747