Which of the following statements is true of blood groups and blood transfusion?
Answer Details
The statement that is true of blood groups and blood transfusion is that group AB is the universal recipient.
Blood groups are determined by the presence or absence of certain antigens on the surface of red blood cells. There are four main blood groups: A, B, AB, and O. When a person needs a blood transfusion, it is important to match their blood group with the blood group of the donor.
Group O blood does not have any A or B antigens, so it can be given to people with any blood group. Therefore, Group O is often called the universal donor. However, Group O individuals can only receive Group O blood.
Group A blood has A antigens on the surface of its red blood cells, and Group B blood has B antigens. Group AB blood has both A and B antigens, while Group O has none. Because Group AB blood has both A and B antigens, it can receive blood from any blood group without the risk of an adverse reaction. Therefore, Group AB is the universal recipient.
Group A individuals can donate blood to people with Group A or AB blood, while Group B individuals can donate to people with Group B or AB blood. This is because a person's immune system can react to a blood transfusion with an incompatible blood type, which can cause serious complications.