Hemoglobin, Hematocrit, and Coagulation Lab Values for Blood Health

What is the normal range of hemoglobin for women?

11.5 - 15.5 g/dL

What is the normal range of hemoglobin for men?

13.0 - 17.0 g/dL

What is the main function of hemoglobin?

To carry oxygen from the lungs to other tissues and organs.

What does a low hemoglobin level indicate?

It can give clues about the health of red blood cells (RBCs).

What is the normal hematocrit range for women?

36-48%

What is the normal hematocrit range for men?

40-55%

What does hematocrit measure?

The percentage of red blood cells in the body.

What is the normal range for platelets (thrombocytes)?

150,000 - 450,000 milliliters.

What is thrombocytopenia?

A low platelet count that can indicate infection or slow clotting.

What is thrombocytosis?

A high platelet count that increases the risk of blood clots.

What does Prothrombin Time (PT) measure?

How quickly a patient's blood forms a clot.

What is the normal range for PT?

11 - 13.5 seconds.

What is the International Normalized Ratio (INR) used for?

To standardize PT results across different lab tests.

What INR range is considered therapeutic for patients on Warfarin?

2.0 - 3.0.

What is the purpose of monitoring PT?

To confirm the blood clotting process is functional, especially in patients on blood thinners.

What is the normal range for Partial Thromboplastin Time (PTT)?

25 - 35 seconds.

What is Heparin used for?

To prevent the formation of blood clots and treat existing clots.

How is Heparin administered?

Subcutaneously (SQ) or intravenously (IV).

What is the purpose of a Coumadin-Heparin bridge?

To start patients on Heparin until they can start on Coumadin and/or until their INR is therapeutic.

What is Enoxaparin Sodium (Lovenox) primarily used for?

Blood clot prevention, especially post-surgery and during acute illness.

What dietary consideration should patients on Coumadin be aware of?

Avoid foods rich in vitamin K, as it can reverse the effects of Coumadin.

What should be monitored in patients receiving Heparin?

PTT levels, especially if they are on anticoagulation therapy.

What is a common side effect of low platelet counts?

Increased risk of bleeding.

What can cause blood to clot too quickly?

Low INR levels, high vitamin K intake, or estrogen-containing medications.

What is the significance of a high PT level?

It indicates that the blood is taking longer than normal to clot, increasing the risk of bleeding.

What should be done if a patient's INR is too high?

Vitamin K may be administered to reverse the effects of Coumadin.