Hematologic Assessment and Diagnosis

Evaluating blood function through tests of blood components like RBCs, WBCs, platelets, and clotting.

Bone marrow makes many blood cells, including RBCs, WBCs, and platelets.

A test that looks at how well the bone marrow is working.

A group of tests measuring RBCs, WBCs, and other blood elements (MCV, MCH, Hgb, Hct).

Tests performed on blood components like RBC count, WBC count, platelets, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and clotting times.

Set of infection control measures used to prevent the spread of infections from blood and bodily fluids.

Blood tests that measure how long it takes for blood to clot.

Treatment using medications to thin the blood and prevent clotting.

Changing the dose of blood thinners based on coagulation test results and healthcare provider's prescription.

Collecting and processing blood samples with care to prevent contamination and maintain accuracy.

Results of hematologic tests are usually available within 24-48 hours for a preliminary report, with final results in 72 hours.

If hematologic test results fall outside the expected reference range, the nurse must report the results to the healthcare provider.

It's the nurse's responsibility to report any abnormal hematologic test results to the healthcare provider.

The healthcare provider will assess the abnormal results and decide on appropriate further action or intervention.

Hematologic test results that fall outside the normal range, indicating potential issues with blood components.

A bone marrow biopsy is typically performed to diagnose blood disorders like anemia, thrombocytopenia, leukemia, and infections, or to stage cancer.

A bone marrow biopsy is usually done with local anesthesia or sedation. The iliac crest is the typical site, and the client may feel pressure and brief pain during the procedure.

Before a bone marrow biopsy, ensure informed consent, explain the procedure, and position the client prone or side-lying.

Inform the client that they'll feel pressure and a crunching sound during the biopsy. Explain the procedure steps clearly.

Older adults may be at higher risk of complications during biopsy sedation due to existing health issues. The nurse should assess their kidney function before using analgesics for sedation.

During a bone marrow biopsy, it's crucial to maintain sterility of equipment and supplies to prevent infection.

After a bone marrow biopsy, immediate pressure should be applied to the site to stop bleeding. A sterile dressing is then placed over the area.

Following a bone marrow biopsy, a client should rest for 30 to 60 minutes. This allows the body to begin healing.

After a biopsy, it's essential to monitor for signs of infection and bleeding, apply ice to reduce inflammation, and keep the site clean and dry.

Infection can occur at the aspiration site, where a needle is inserted to withdraw fluid or tissue.

Bleeding can occur from the aspiration site after a procedure, potentially causing a hematoma (blood collection) at the site.

To prevent infection, the aspiration site dressing must be kept clean and dry.

If bleeding occurs from the aspiration site, the nurse should immediately report it to the healthcare provider.

To control bleeding from an aspiration site, apply a pressure dressing directly over the site.

Measures the number of red blood cells (RBCs) per microliter of blood. Reflects oxygen-carrying capacity.

Indicates an increase in RBCs, potentially caused by conditions like erythrocytosis, polycythemia vera, or dehydration.

Implies a lower than normal number of RBCs, often related to anemia, bleeding, or kidney issues.

Determines the number of white blood cells (WBCs) per cubic millimeter of blood, reflecting immune system function.

Suggests an increased white blood cell count, commonly associated with infections, inflammation, and certain diseases.

Indicates a lower than usual white blood cell count, potentially due to immunosuppression, autoimmune diseases, or certain medications.

Measures the average volume of red blood cells, indicating their size. Helpful for diagnosing anemia types.

Determines the number of platelets in blood, essential for blood clotting.

An elevated RBC count suggests an increase in red blood cells, potentially caused by conditions like erythrocytosis, polycythemia vera, or dehydration.

A decreased mean corpuscular volume (MCV) indicates smaller than normal red blood cells, often associated with conditions like iron deficiency anemia.

A decreased white blood cell count can be caused by immunosuppression, autoimmune diseases, or certain medications.

An elevated total iron binding capacity (TIBC) suggests your body is not holding enough iron. This commonly occurs in iron deficiency anemia and polycythemia vera.

The International Normalized Ratio (INR) measures the mean of the Prothrombin Time (PT), providing a standardized value to assess clotting function.

An extended prothrombin time (PT) indicates that blood takes longer to clot. This can occur due to deficiencies in clotting factors, liver disease, or certain medications.

An increased activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) indicates delayed clotting, often occurring with vitamin K deficiency, disseminated intravascular coagulation, liver disease, or heparin administration.

Measures the number of platelets per blood volume. Platelets are essential for clotting, so a low number increases bleeding risk.