Hematocrit Lab

What is hematocrit (HCT)?

The percentage of erythrocytes (red blood cells) in a whole blood sample.

How is hematocrit determined?

By separating formed elements from plasma and measuring the packed red blood cell volume.

What is the normal hematocrit range for adult males?

42–52%

What is the normal hematocrit range for adult females?

37–47%

What factors can cause an abnormally elevated hematocrit?

High altitude, elevated testosterone, certain diseases, and blood doping.

What is blood doping?

Methods used to increase the blood’s oxygen-carrying capacity.

What does the positive control represent in the simulation?

A blood-doped sample.

What does the negative control represent in the simulation?

A non-doped sample.

What are essential safety precautions when handling blood samples?

Wear gloves and goggles, disinfect lab benches, wash hands, use each lancet only once, and dispose of contaminated items properly.

Why must a centrifuge be balanced?

To ensure it runs properly and safely.

How do you measure hematocrit using a hematocrit chart?

Align the bottom of the blood and clay with the chart’s bottom and the top of the plasma with the chart’s top, then read the measurement.