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Health Information and Tools > Patient Care Handouts >  Coombs Test: About This Test

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Coombs Test: About This Test

What is it?

A Coombs test is a type of antibody test. It checks your blood for certain antibodies that attack red blood cells. Antibodies are proteins made by the immune system. Normally, antibodies bind to foreign substances, such as bacteria and viruses, and cause them to be destroyed.

Why is this test done?

This test is used to:

  • Test blood before a transfusion.
  • Find antibodies caused by disease or a blood transfusion.
  • Check a newborn baby with Rh-positive blood whose mother has Rh-negative blood.
  • Check to see if a pregnant woman has Rh-positive or Rh-negative blood.

How do you prepare for the test?

  • In general, you don't need to prepare before having this test. Your doctor may give you some specific instructions.

How is the test done?

  • A health professional takes a sample of your blood.

How long does the test take?

The test will take a few minutes.

What happens after the test?

  • You will probably be able to go home right away.
  • You can go back to your usual activities right away.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to keep a list of the medicines you take. Ask your doctor when you can expect to have your test results.

For 24/7 nurse advice and general health information call Health Link at 811.

Where can you learn more?

Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

Enter Y320 in the search box to learn more about "Coombs Test: About This Test".

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Care instructions adapted under license by your healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask your healthcare professional. Ignite Healthwise, LLC disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.

For 24/7 nurse advice and general health information call Health Link at 811.

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.