Red Blood Cell Count (RBC) Procedure

What is the primary function of red blood cells?

What is the normal red blood cell count range in million cells per cubic millimeter for a male?

Which instrument is used for counting cells in blood or fluid?

What component of red blood cells binds oxygen?

What is indicated by a red blood cell count below the normal range?

The red blood cells are primarily responsible for giving blood its characteristic color. What is this color?

What is the stability duration of the RBC diluting fluid at room temperature?

Which of the following correctly describes the shape of mature human red blood cells?

In which physiological conditions would higher red blood cell counts be observed?

What is the purpose of the cover slip in the hemocytometer procedure?

Red Blood Cell Count (RBC)

Red blood cells, also called erythrocytes, are cellular components of blood.
They are numerous in vertebrate blood, giving it its color.
Their function is to transport oxygen from lungs to tissues and carbon dioxide (a metabolic waste) from tissues to lungs.
Mature red blood cells are small, round, biconcave, and flexible.
They lack a nucleus and contain hemoglobin, an iron-rich protein that binds oxygen.

Red Blood Cell Count (RBC) Procedure

RBC count indicates the number of red blood cells in a specific volume of blood.
Normal ranges vary slightly between labs, but generally fall between 4.2 to 5.9 million cells/cmm.
Blood samples are diluted using a special instrument called a hemocytometer.
Diluted blood is placed on a counting chamber.
A minimum of 400-600 red blood cells are counted.
Calculate the RBC count using a formula involving dilution factor, volume, and count.

Preparation and Materials

Diluting Fluid: A solution of sodium citrate and formalin is used.
Pipette: A special pipette (RBC pipette) is used to accurately measure and dilute the blood sample.
Counting Chamber (Neubauer Chamber): Holds the diluted blood sample for microscopic cell counting.
Cover Slip: A thin glass slip covers the counting chamber.
Microscope: Required for visual observation of cells in the counting chamber.

Normal Values

Male: 4.5 to 6.0 x 10⁶ cells/cu mm
Female: 4.0 to 4.5 x 10⁶ cells/cu mm
Higher values: Can indicate lung or heart diseases.
Lower values: May suggest anemia.

This quiz covers the essential concepts of red blood cells (RBCs) and the procedures involved in counting them. Learn about the anatomy of RBCs, their function in the circulatory system, and the methodology for conducting an RBC count using a hemocytometer. Test your understanding of normal ranges and calculations associated with RBC counting.