Donor Testing

Blood samples from all donors are taken at the time of each donation for laboratory tests. In the laboratory, each sample is tested for ABO group, Rh(D) type, antibody screen for unexpected red cell antibodies, and several transmissible diseases. Results of current blood grouping tests are compared with prior donations for concurrence.

Blood donor testing for transmissible diseases in Canada and elsewhere has evolved over the years and continues to be dynamic.

Also see testing of donor blood in the Circular of Information for the Use of Human Blood and Blood Components (Section A.2).