MLT 251 - Cell Counts & RBC Indices OBJs

Familiarize yourself with more hematology concepts.

Recall the reference ranges for WBC, RBC and platelets.

Recall the appropriate number of reportable decimal places for each.

List the materials and equipment necessary to perform determinations of blood cell counts.

Necessary materials include a hemocytometer, microscope, pipettes, diluents, and blood samples.

Describe a hemacytometer.

A hemocytometer is a specialized microscope slide used for counting cells in a liquid sample, typically blood. It consists of a thick glass microscope slide with a defined grid of chambers that facilitates accurate cell quantification.

Determine volumes using the Neubauer ruling.

For each type of cell count, state the microscope light settings, the magnification/objective, the area/volume counted, dilution and the rules for duplicate acceptance.

For each of the cell types, state the composition and ideal qualities of the diluent utilized for cell counts.

Describe the pattern and rules utilized when counting cells in the counting chamber.

Utilize the cell count formula to determine cell counts.

Interpret cell count results.

Explain why manual WBC counts must be corrected when there is presence of NRBCs.

Given the number of NRBCs seen per 100 WBC, correct the manual WBC count.

Given the number of NRBCs seen per 100 WBC and a manual WBC count, determine the NRBCs per microliter.

Explain the rule of three, its purpose and limitations.

Apply the rule of three.

Define the terms MCV, MCH, MCHC.

Explain what is being measured by each of the three indices.

Recall the formula for calculation of each of the indices and explain the derivation of the formula for each.

Given the RBC count, Hct, and Hb values, calculate the red cell indices.

State the expected normal range of values for the MCV, MCH and MCHC and indicate the appropriate units of reporting each of the indices.

Explain the use of the red cell indices to determine red cell morphology.

Interpret indices values.

Morphologically classify an anemia when given the results of the MCV, MCH and MCHC.

Describe the limitations encountered in the use of red cell indices.

Explain the purpose of correlating the physical appearance of red blood cells on a stained smear preparation with the calculated red cell indices.

Explain step by step what to do if the MCHC is greater than 36 g/dL.

Discuss the derivation of the RDW, stating the reference range and how an abnormal increase relates to the morphology on a peripheral blood smear.

Correlate poikilocytosis types with high MCHCs.

Describe the correlation between MCV and a delta check.

Provide several explanations for a failed delta check and give a reasonable follow-up action to resolve.