A phlebotomy technician should identify that a patient with blood type AB is considered a universal recipient. Here's why:
1. Blood type AB individuals have both A and B antigens on the surface of their red blood cells, making them universal recipients. This means they can receive blood from donors of any ABO blood type without having a transfusion reaction.
2. In contrast, blood type O individuals are considered universal donors because their red blood cells do not have A or B antigens on their surface, so their blood is compatible with recipients of any blood type.
In summary, a patient with blood type AB is the universal recipient as they can safely receive blood from donors of any ABO blood type without complications.
