10 Questions
What does the haematocrit (Ht) value measure?
Volume of RBCs in 100ml blood
What is the normal haematocrit value for females?
45 ± 5
What condition is associated with an increase in haematocrit value?
Dehydration
What method is used to measure the haematocrit value?
Centrifugation of blood in a graduated tube
Which of the following best describes the haematocrit value (Ht)?
It is the percentage of RBCs in 100ml blood.
What condition is associated with a decrease in haematocrit value (Ht)?
Anaemias
In the method for measuring haematocrit value (Ht), what is used to prevent blood from clotting?
Anticoagulant
What does the Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) measure?
The distance in mm of sedimented RBCs of blood column at the end of one and two hours.
What is the normal haematocrit value for males?
47 ± 7
What would be the effect on haematocrit value (Ht) after saline infusion?
Remain unchanged
Study Notes
Haematocrit (Ht) Value
- Measures the proportion of red blood cells in the blood
- Normal values:
- Females: 37-48%
- Males: 41-53%
- An increase in Ht value is associated with polycythaemia (excessive red blood cells)
- A decrease in Ht value is associated with anaemia (insufficient red blood cells)
Measurement of Haematocrit Value
- Measured using a microhaematocrit centrifuge
- Anticoagulant (e.g. EDTA) is used to prevent blood from clotting during measurement
Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)
- Measures the rate at which red blood cells settle at the bottom of a test tube
- Used to detect inflammation and monitor disease activity
Effect of Saline Infusion on Haematocrit Value
- Saline infusion would decrease the haematocrit value due to haemodilution (dilution of red blood cells with excess fluid)
Learn about haematocrit value (Ht), which measures the volume of red blood cells in the blood. Explore the normal values for males and females, and understand how to interpret results in relation to conditions such as polycythemia, dehydration, anaemias, and overhydration.
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