Red Blood Cell (RBC) Lab Values

Overview Red blood cells Normal Value Range Patho Special considerations Too High: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments Too Low: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments Nursing Points General Normal range Measured in millions Normal values Males 4.5-5.5 x106/mcL Females 4-4.9×106/mcL Pathophysiology Red Blood Cell generation Formed in bone marrow Stimulated by kidneys by erythropoietin Function AKA Erythrocytes Reticulocytes Young RBC Indicate regeneration Carries oxygen Via Hemoglobin Allows for transfer of CO2 Bioconcave shape Increases surface area Allows for ability to “squeeze” into capillaries 2.4 M made every 1 second Special considerations Submitted via LAVENDER top tube (EDTA) Technique can destroy red blood cells Allow vacuum in vacutainers to draw blood, never force blood into tubes Consider angiocath/IV size when drawing blood Elevated RBC results Dehydration Result of decreased plasma Polycythemia Bone marrow cancer, causes increase in RBC COPD Pulmonary fibrosis Decreased RBC results Anemia Sickle-cell ↓ EPO due to kidney disease Hemorrhage Bone marrow failure Pregnancy Assessment Assess for signs of anemia Tachycardia Fatigue Shortness of breath Decreased SaO2 Pallor Therapeutic Management Blood transfusions as necessary Treat primary cause of anemia Nursing Concepts Lab Values Oxygenation