(CNN)-- The success of blood transfusion depends on the compatibility between the donor's blood type and the recipient's blood type, as incompatibility can lead to serious complications. Therefore, determining blood type and performing compatibility tests are essential steps before transfusion.

Blood type is determined according to the ABO system and Rh factor, and is divided into four main types: A, B, AB, and O, with each classified as positive (+) or negative (-) depending on the presence of the Rh factor.

The ability of each blood type to donate or receive blood varies; some types can donate to more people, while others can receive from more donors. In emergency situations, O negative (O-) blood is used when the patient's blood type is unknown.

The infographic above illustrates the blood types you can donate to or receive blood from, according to the guidelines of the American Society of Hematology.