BBGuy Essentials Blog
Educational discussions from Dr. ChaffinABO Blood Group System Testing – A Primer
ABO is the most important blood group, but not necessarily the EASIEST! This primer gives you the essentials to build your understanding. Read the Post
My Five Favorite Interviews of 2016!
After 24 episodes of the Blood Bank Guy Essentials Podcast, here are my top 5 favorite interviews (but don't stop here!) Read the Post
The Essentials: Granulocytes
Granulocytes are weird! This specialized blood product has many unique features. Dr. Chaffin declassifies the essentials. Read the Post
So You Want to be a “G-Wiz?”
The G antigen and its associated antibody seem mysterious. You should understand both, especially in caring for pregnant patients. Read the Post
Help! I’ve Acquired a B!
ABO discrepancies are easier if you understand basic biochemistry. This post reviews the famous and weird "Acquired B Phenotype." Read the Post
Rhapsody in Rh! Explaining Rh Terminology
The confusing Rh blood group terminology has befuddled students for decades. Let's make it more straightforward! Read the Post
006: Ask BBGuy Mailbag
Dr. Chaffin opens the BBGuy mailbag to discuss D variants, Liquid Plasma, warm autoantibody issues, and directed donor blood collections. Read the Post
What’s in a Name? Ending Direct/Indirect Confusion
The DAT and IAT sound so similar and often confuse clinical staff and blood banking students. You can keep them straight! Read the Post
Don’t Get Testy With Me! Blood Donor Infectious Testing
Let's talk about U.S. blood donor infectious disease testing for infections, including how we handle emerging infections like Zika. Read the Post
Breaking the Rules; Group A Plasma in Emergencies
"Wait, this isn't AB plasma!!" No, the blood bank didn't make a mistake! Understand the change to group A plasma in emergencies. Read the Post
Dude, I’m Anemic? A New Issue for Male Blood Donors
Some men may be in for a surprise the next time they show up to donate blood. Learn what changed in May 2016. Read the Post