Blood Bank Technology: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries

Program Overview

Blood bank technology is a specialized field focused on the safe collection, processing, testing, and distribution of blood products to support patient care in clinical settings. Professionals in this discipline play a critical role in ensuring the accuracy and safety of blood transfusions, directly contributing to life-saving medical outcomes.

• Basic cellular biology: Foundational knowledge of blood cell structure, function, and development, essential for understanding blood components and their roles in health and disease.
• Immunohematology: Study of immune responses related to blood group antigens and antibodies, crucial for preventing adverse reactions during transfusions.
• Blood bank procedures: Standardized laboratory techniques for handling blood specimens, performing tests, and managing inventory with precision and compliance.
• Blood typing and crossmatching: Methods to determine blood group compatibility between donors and recipients, minimizing the risk of transfusion reactions.
• Antigen and antibody identification: Advanced testing to detect and characterize specific blood group antigens and antibodies, supporting accurate blood product selection.
• Hemolytic and transfusion reactions: Analysis of immune-mediated complications arising from incompatible blood transfusions, including diagnosis and prevention strategies.
• Donor selection and screening: Protocols for evaluating potential blood donors based on health history, physical criteria, and risk assessment to ensure safe donations.
• Blood collection and storage: Techniques for safely drawing blood and maintaining optimal conditions during short- and long-term storage to preserve product viability.
• Blood separation and component preparation: Processes for fractionating whole blood into red cells, plasma, platelets, and other therapeutic components.
• Viral marker testing: Laboratory assays to detect infectious agents such as HIV, hepatitis B and C, and other pathogens in donated blood.
• Laboratory and personnel supervision: Oversight of workflow, quality control, staff training, and adherence to operational standards in blood bank environments.
• Safety and sterilization practices: Implementation of infection control measures, equipment decontamination, and biosafety protocols to protect personnel and patients.
• Regulatory compliance: Understanding of federal, state, and professional standards—including those from the FDA and AABB—that govern blood banking operations and documentation.