BIOL 402 - Immunohematology

4 Credits
This course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and techniques used in blood banking and transfusion practices. By focusing on the study of blood group antigens, antibodies, and their interactions in transfusion medicine, the course content will help prepare students for careers in clinical laboratory science, specifically in blood banking and transfusion services, where they play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and effective use of blood products for patient transfusion therapy. Throughout the course, students will engage in both theoretical learning and practical application. They will explore the ABO and Rh blood group systems, along with other significant blood group antigens and antibodies, delving into their distribution, characteristics, and clinical relevance. The course emphasizes the critical role of immunohematology in ensuring safe and effective blood transfusions, highlighting the importance of accurate blood typing, crossmatching, and compatibility testing.

Grade Note(s): All BIOL prefixed courses required for the BS Biological Sciences degree program require a C or better grade for successful completion.
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 221 and BIOL 221L
Course Learning Outcomes:

Recommend blood transfusions based on laboratory findings.
Evaluate and manage transfusion reactions using clinical and laboratory data.
Analyze serological tests to ensure transfusion compatibility and patient safety.
Perform blood typing and compatibility tests, adhering to standard laboratory protocols.
Apply problem-solving skills to resolve complex clinical scenarios in transfusion medicine.
Explain the blood group systems and their clinical significance in transfusion medicine.