"A TTI is also known as a 'transfusion-transmitted infection.' HIV is an example of a TTI. Because there are several infections that are transmitted through blood, the Centers for Disease Control mandate that screening for TTIs is performed on all donated blood specimens."

"Transfusion-transmitted infections (TTIs) are infections resulting from the introduction of a pathogen into a person through blood transfusion. A wide variety of organisms, including bacteria, viruses, prions, and parasites can be transmitted through blood transfusions. For this reason, all donated blood specimens are screened for infections that can be transmitted through blood or body fluids."

It is mandatory that all donated blood be tested for transfusion transmitted infections. As a blood bank laboratory technician, it is important to know what tests need to be performed on blood before it is logged and stored for possible transfusion later. Failure to test a specimen before it is made available for transfusion can result in serious harm to a recipient. The interviewer wants to know that you understand the importance of TTI screening.

"A TTI is a transfusion transmitted infection that results from a recipient receiving donated blood that is contaminated with infection. Testing for a TTI includes screening for viral hepatitis including Hepatitis B surface antigen for Hepatitis B and anti-HCV anti-body for Hepatitis C."