Final answer:
In a two-person verification process for blood transfusions, the second verifier must be qualified as defined by The Joint Commission. Accurate blood type matching through pretransfusion testing is essential to avoid hemolytic transfusion reactions, and in critical situations, type O blood is used for its universal compatibility.
Step-by-step explanation:
To eliminate transfusion errors related to patient misidentification, particularly during blood transfusions, hospitals employ a two-person verification process. The first individual must be a qualified transfusionist, while the second person must be qualified to participate in the process, as defined by The Joint Commission. This is to ensure that the blood or blood product being administered is correct and safe for the patient, which aligns with hemovigilance systems that track transfusion information, monitor outcomes, and prevent hemolytic transfusion reactions (HTRs).
The importance of blood type matching is critical in preventing HTRs. Pretransfusion blood testing uses commercially prepared antibodies against the A, B, and Rh antigens to confirm compatibility. In emergency situations where there is no time for blood type determination, type O blood, which is universally compatible, may be used. Blood bank technology specialists and phlebotomists are trained professionals who play essential roles in the preparation and administration of blood transfusions.