Abstract

This subject considers the theoretical aspects of blood group serology and blood banking practice including pre-transfusion testing, investigation of haemolytic disease of the foetus and newborn (HDFN), and investigation of transfusion reactions.

Syllabus

MODULE 1: INTRODUCTION TO TRANSFUSION SCIENCE Revision of assumed previous knowledge: Genetics and immunology;Reagents used in blood banking;Methods used in blood banking; andIntroduction to blood groups. MODULE 2: ERYTHROCYTE BLOOD GROUPS Blood Group System: ABO;Blood Group System: Rh;Blood Group Systems: Kell, Duffy, Kidd, MNS, P and Lewis;Erythrocyte antibody detection and … For more content click the Read More button below. MODULE 3: BLOOD AND BLOOD PRODUCTS Donor selection and testing;Component preparation;Indications for transfusion;Compatibility testing;Transfusion in select patient groups;Complications of transfusion; andTransfusion alternatives. MODULE 4: CLINICAL CONSIDERATIONS IMPORTANT TO IMMUNOHAEMATOLOGY Haemolytic disease of the foetus and newborn;Foeto-maternal alloimmune thrombocytopenia; andImmune mediated haemolytic anaemia. MODULE 5: QUALITY AND REGULATIONS Quality Management in the Blood Bank;Regulations associated with Transfusion Laboratories in Australia; andInformation Technology and automation.

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
1.
be able to explain the principles used for detection and identification of blood group antigens and antibodies and apply them to problem-solving activities including but not limited to case studies;
2.
be able to explain and evaluate safe transfusion requirements, transfusion-transmitted diseases, transfusion reactions, autoimmune haemolytic anaemias; haemolytic disease of the foetus and newborn, and foeto-maternal allo-immune thrombocytopenia;
3.
be able to evaluate the organisation of blood collection centres and blood banks in regard to donor selection, blood collection, and the processing, storage and preservation of blood products;
4.
be able to evaluate features of blood products including but not limited to their preparation methods, storage, quality control and indications for use;
5.
be able to explain the testing process associated with pre-transfusion; transfusion reaction; and haemolytic disease of the foetus and newborn; and
6.
be able to demonstrate high levels of academic literacy.

Enrolment restrictions

Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (Pathology)