1. What does the microhematocrit measure?

 The packed cell volume, also known as the hematocrit, is a measurement of the proportion
of red blood cells (RBCs) in a specific volume of whole blood in a capillary tube. This volume
is calculated as a percentage of the overall blood sample volume and measured following
the appropriate centrifugation time. The clinician can estimate the patient's red cell volume
and, consequently, the blood's ability to carry oxygen with the help of the frequently used
hematocrit test. The measurement is helpful in detecting anemia, vetting potential blood
donors, assessing anemia treatments, and calculating bleeding time after trauma or
hemorrhage.

2. Name a condition that causes a decreased hematocrit level.

 Reduced hemoglobin or hematocrit levels may signify anemia, such as iron deficiency
anemia. When the amount of hemoglobin in your red blood cells declines, anemia develops
(RBCs). The protein in your RBCs called hemoglobin is in charge of delivering oxygen to your
tissues. Anemia is a condition that most people have iron deficiency. It happens when your
body doesn't have enough iron, which is required for the production of hemoglobin. The
rest of your body cannot get the necessary amount of oxygen if your blood doesn't contain
enough iron. It's possible for people with mild or moderate iron deficiency anemia to be
symptom-free. Fatigue, breathlessness, or chest pain are common signs of anemia, as can
more severe iron deficiency anemia.