blood lab manual

Connective tissue

A type of tissue that supports and binds other tissues; blood is an example.

Plasma

The liquid matrix of blood that carries formed elements and nutrients.

Leukocytes

White blood cells that protect the body against harmful substances.

Platelets (thrombocytes)

Cell fragments that help in blood clotting and preventing blood loss.

Blood diagnostic tests

Procedures used to assess a person's health by analyzing components of blood.

White Blood Cell Differential

A test measuring the amount of each type of leukocyte in the blood, used for diagnosing diseases.

Hematocrit

A measurement of the proportion of erythrocytes in the blood; low levels may indicate anemia.

Coagulation Time

A test measuring the time it takes for a blood clot to form, indicating bleeding risk.

Blood Type

Determined by surface antigens on red blood cells and essential for transfusion compatibility.

Blood Glucose

A measurement of glucose concentration in the blood, important for assessing metabolic function.