Hematocrit

Definition

Hematocrit is the percentage of red blood cells (RBCs) in a given volume of blood. It is a critical measure for assessing oxygen-carrying capacity and overall blood health.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Normal hematocrit levels differ between men (approximately 40-54%) and women (approximately 36-48%).
2. Low hematocrit levels can indicate anemia, which may impair oxygen delivery to tissues, including the lungs.
3. High hematocrit levels can increase blood viscosity, potentially leading to complications like hypertension or pulmonary embolism.
4. Adequate nutrition, particularly iron intake, is essential for maintaining normal hematocrit levels.
5. Dehydration can falsely elevate hematocrit levels due to reduced plasma volume.

Review Questions

• What are the normal hematocrit ranges for adult men and women?
• How can low hematocrit levels impact pulmonary function?
• Why is adequate iron intake important for maintaining normal hematocrit levels?

Related terms

Anemia:

A condition characterized by a deficiency in red blood cells or hemoglobin, leading to fatigue and weakness.

Hypoxia: A state in which there is insufficient oxygen at the tissue level, often resulting from low hematocrit.

Iron Deficiency: A nutritional deficit that can lead to decreased hemoglobin production and lower hematocrit values.