Hematology Flashcards
What is thrombotic thrombocytopenia purpura?
platelets abnormally clump together leaving only a few available for clotting
What is tranexamic acid?
antifibrinolytic agent that can be used during surgery to minimize blood loss and improve hemoglobin and hematocrit levels
What is a reticulocyte?
immature RBC that still has its nucleus
Why should patients get vaccinated at least 2 weeks before a splenectomy?
Chances of infection are increased after surgery because the spleen performs a lot of protective immune functions.
What are some causes of iron deficiency anemia?
blood loss, malabsorption problems, poor diet, chronic alcoholism
What are causes of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia?
vegan diets or other diets that lack protein, small bowel resection, malabsorption issues, diverticula, tapeworm, or overgrowth of intestinal bacteria
What are sx of vitamin B12 deficiency?
pallor, jaundice, glossitis, fatigue, weight loss, and paresthesia
Why is vitamin B12 deficiency most common in older adults?
They have less intrinsic factor which carries B12 down the small intestine for absorption
What is pernicious anemia?
Failure to absorb vitamin B12 d/t intrinsic factor deficiency (autoimmune disorder)
What is the difference between pernicious anemia and vitamin B12 deficiency?
Pernicious is lack of intrinsic factor
What is prothrombin time (PT)?
measures how long blood takes to clot
When do we call a provider/rapid response for an abnormal PTT value?
Greater than 70 seconds
What is a normal PT range?
11-12.5 seconds
What is a normal PTT range?
25-35 seconds
What does an increased coagulation value mean?
longer clotting times (desirable for therapy with warfarin)
