Which blood type is considered the universal erythrocyte donor for emergency packed red blood cell transfusions, and why?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Group O Rh-negative
Type O Rh-negative erythrocytes lack the A, B, and RhD carbohydrate and protein surface antigens. When transfused as packed red blood cells (with plasma removed), they will not be agglutinated or destroyed by recipient anti-A, anti-B, or anti-D antibodies, making them the universal donor for red cells. Type AB Rh-positive is the universal recipient for red cells, but universal donor for plasma.
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