Certified Clinical Transplant Nurse (CCTN) Practice Exam 2026 - Free CCTN Practice Questions and Study Guide

A high PRA (panel reactive antibody) indicates that the recipient has a significant level of antibodies against a wide range of potential donor antigens. This situation is critical in transplantation because a high PRA suggests that the recipient's immune system is likely to recognize and mount an immune response against tissues from many donors. As a result, the likelihood of experiencing a positive cross-match is increased. A positive cross-match signifies that the recipient has pre-existing antibodies to the donor's specific human leukocyte antigens (HLAs), thereby indicating a higher risk of transplant rejection.

This understanding is essential for managing transplant patients, as it informs the choice of donors, strategies for sensitization, and the overall transplant plan. Recognizing that a high PRA correlates with a positive cross-match helps healthcare providers anticipate challenges in finding compatible donors for recipients with high PRA levels.