determining hematocrit Flashcards
1
Q
hematocrit
A
the ratio of the volume of RBC to the total blood volume
2
Q
abnormally high hematocrit
A
polycythemia
3
Q
abnormally low hematocrit
A
oligocythemia (anemia)
4
Q
explain the meaning of “buffy coat”
A
the density of WBC is lower than RBC. WBC form a very thin “buffy coat” on the top of the RBC after centrifugation
5
Q
Venous hematocrit larger than arterial, explain.
A
Because of ion transport and water flux associated with the CO2 transport
6
Q
how to measure the hematocrit?
A
- We use anticoagulated blood
- Fill the tube ¾ of its capacity
- Close the tube with plasticine
- Put the 2 capillaries in the centrifuge by facing each other and the closed plasticine side pointing out in the microcapillary centrifuge
- Centrifuge for 3 min. at 12-18 rpm
7
Q
what can the color of the plasma give us indication about?
A
pathological processes (e.g hemolysis, icterus)
8
Q
how to measure the value of the hematocrit?
A
using a scale plate.
9
Q
at what speed should we centrifuge the sample in hematocrit measuring
A
12.000-18.000 rpm
