what blood type is universal

The universal blood donor blood type for red blood cell transfusions is O negative (O−).

Quick Scoop

• O− is called the “universal donor” because its red blood cells can be given to people of any major blood type in emergencies when the patient’s type is unknown.

• AB+ is the “universal recipient” for red blood cells, meaning people with AB+ can receive red cells from any of the main blood types.

• For plasma (the liquid part of blood), the “universal” type is different: AB plasma can usually be given to patients of any blood type.

In everyday medical talk, when people ask “what blood type is universal,” they almost always mean O negative, the universal red cell donor type used heavily in trauma and emergency rooms.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.