Final answer:
Individuals with Rh+ blood can receive Rh+ or Rh- blood, while those with Rh- should only receive Rh- blood to avoid immune reactions. Knowing one's Rh blood type is critical for safe blood transfusions. AB+ individuals are universal recipients, but Rh compatibility must still be considered.
Step-by-step explanation:
In compatibility of Rh blood types, a person with Rh+ blood can receive Rh+ or Rh- blood, as their bodies do not produce anti-Rh antibodies. However, an individual with Rh- blood should only receive Rh- blood to avoid the risk of developing anti-Rh antibodies, which could cause agglutination and hemolysis of the donor's red blood cells. This would lead to negative health implications. It is crucial for patients to know their Rh status to ensure the safety of blood transfusions.
It's important to note that the Rh (Rhesus) factor is a protein present on the surface of red blood cells; individuals are classified as Rh+ if they have the protein, and Rh- if they do not. Exposure of an Rh- person to Rh+ blood can trigger an immune response that is potentially dangerous upon subsequent exposures, which can be critical in cases like pregnancy or blood transfusions.
As such, while a person with type AB+ blood is considered a universal recipient, being able to receive all types of blood, the Rh factor still plays a significant role in donor-recipient compatibility. For example, United Blood Services states that a person with O- blood can donate to any individual, since they lack both A/B antigens and the Rh antigen, preventing adverse reactions in the recipient.