Diagnostic Procedure

Complete Blood Count or CBC

-a complete blood count (CBC) is a series of tests used to evaluate the composition and
concentration of the cellular components of blood. It consists of the following tests: red blood
cell (RBC) count, white blood cell (WBC) count, and platelet count; measurement of
hemoglobin and mean red cell volume; classification of white blood cells (WBC differential);
and calculation of hematocrit and red blood cell indices.

Nursing Considerations
1. Explain test procedure. Explain that slight discomfort may be felt when the skin is punctured.
2. Encourage to avoid stress if possible because altered physiologic status influences and
changes normal hematologic values.
3. Explain that fasting is not necessary. However, fatty meals may alter some test results as a
result of lipidemia.
4. Apply manual pressure and dressings over puncture site on removal of dinner.
5. If the patient has a history of allergic reaction to latex, avoid the use of equipment containing
latex.
6. Instruct the patient to cooperate fully and to follow directions. Direct the patient to breathe
normally and to avoid unnecessary movement.
7. Remove the needle and apply direct pressure with dry gauze to stop bleeding. Observe/ assess
venipuncture site for bleeding or hematoma formation and secure gauze with adhesive
bandage.
8. Promptly transport the specimen to the laboratory for processing and analysis.
9. Instruct to resume normal activities and diet.

Exam name Result Unit Normal value

Haemoglobin 24 (Low) g/l 110-150

Haematocrit 0.089 (Low) 0.37-0.45
WBC Ct. 6.8 10ᶺg/l 4.6-10
Differential Ct.
Segmenters 0.733 (High) 0.50-0.70
Lymphocytes 0.214 0.20-0.40
Monocytes 0.053 0-0.07
MCV 57.3 (Low) Fl 80.9-99.9
MCH 15.6 (Low) Pg 27.0-31.0
MCHC 27.2 (Low) % 33.0-37.0

Blood type “A “ +

Interpretation:

Lowered haemogbin indicates disease or abnormality and most commonly anemia.

Lowered hematocrit can imply significant hemorrhage.
Increased segmenter indicates viral infection.
Lowered MCH indicates that cells have to little haemoglobin.
Lowered MCV indicates anemia caused by bleeding.
Lowered MCHC indicates Iron-Deficiency Anemia or by blood loss.