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...
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