Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

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Which blood type is considered the universal donor?

AB+
O-
A+
B+

The correct answer is: O-

The blood type known as the universal donor is O negative (O-). This designation arises from the fact that O- blood lacks A, B, and Rh antigens on the surface of its red blood cells. Consequently, it can be safely transfused to patients of any blood type without causing an immune reaction, as there are no antigens present that could trigger an attack from the recipient's immune system. In the context of blood transfusions, individuals with other blood types may have different antigens that could lead to complications if transfused with incompatible blood. For example, people with AB+ blood have both A and B antigens and can receive blood from any donor, making them universal recipients rather than donors. The other blood types such as A+ and B+ have specific antigens that limit their compatibility with certain blood types, thus reducing their effectiveness as donor types compared to O-. Overall, the universal donor attribute of O- blood is critical in emergency situations where rapid transfusion is necessary and the recipient's blood type may not be immediately known.