Blood for Crossmatch (XM)

ICE Code

• Blood for Crossmatch (XM)

Sample Type & Volume

• 1 x 6 ml EDTA

Collection Requirements

• N/A

Sample Labelling Criteria

• Samples and forms must be clearly labelled with three or more identical points of identification using a ballpoint (permanent) ink pen

1. 1.  Hospital number
   2.  Patient surname and forename (one identifier)
   3. Date of birth

• Samples MUST be labelled, dated and signed by the person taking them.
• Sticky labels are not permitted on samples.
• Request form must be signed dated and timed by person taking the sample

NOTE: Samples received broken/leaking, inadequately labelled, aged, clotted, haemolysed or otherwise unsuitable for testing will not be processed; an appropriate comment will be entered onto the computer system. If the requested tests are urgent, laboratory staff will attempt to notify the ward/clinician

Sample Criteria Validity

• 7 days including the transfusion period, however if patient has been transfused or pregnant within the last 3 months then sample is only valid for 72hrs including the transfusion period.

Reference Range

• N/A

Turnaround Times

• Emergency: Group O blood on demand from laboratory
• Otherwise 45 mins for full crossmatch from receipt of sample in laboratory plus transport time.

Non-urgent: within one working day non-emergency crossmatch

*If antibodies are present, turnaround time to be determined on a case by case basis.

Referral (name of Referral lab)

• N/A