What type of blood sample is most often used for blood typing?

The most commonly used type of blood sample for blood typing is whole blood. Whole blood contains all components of blood, including red and white blood cells, platelets, and plasma, which are essential for accurately determining blood type.

When testing for blood type, the presence of specific antigens on the surface of red blood cells is examined. Whole blood, being the complete form of blood, allows for the detection of these antigens efficiently. In addition, the coagulation factors present in whole blood do not interfere with the blood typing process.

Other types of samples, such as serum, which is the liquid portion obtained after blood has clotted, do not contain cells or the relevant antigens and therefore cannot be used for complete blood typing. Although venous and capillary blood can be used in certain circumstances, whole blood is preferred for its comprehensive representation of blood components, leading to more reliable blood typing results.