Anesthesia Technician Practice Exam

What is the term for using one's own blood for transfusion?

1. Homologous transfusion

2. Autologous transfusion

3. Allogenic transfusion

4. Directed donation

The correct answer is: Autologous transfusion

The term for using one's own blood for transfusion is autologous transfusion. This practice involves a patient donating their own blood prior to a surgical procedure, ensuring that the blood is available for their own use if needed during or after surgery. The primary benefit of autologous transfusion is the reduction of the risk of transfusion reactions and infections, as the patient is receiving their own blood, which is already compatible. In contrast, homologous transfusion refers to receiving blood from a donor other than oneself, which can increase the risk of potential transfusion reactions. Allogenic transfusion also involves using blood from a donor but is often used to describe blood that is collected and stored for use in multiple patients. Directed donation involves a specific blood donation from an individual who designates the recipient, which can be a family member or friend, but is still considered a form of allogenic transfusion as it does not utilize the donor's blood. Thus, autologous transfusion stands out as the term that accurately describes the use of one’s own blood for transfusion.