UNDERSTANDING THE CBC ( COMPLETE BLOOD COUNT )

Updated 8/25

Scenario: Two passersby noticed a woman face 
down on the beach. They called 911 and the woman 
was transported to the Emergency Room.

She would later be identified. Lab values were done. 
Her history would reveal, surgical intervention 1 week
ago. Her WBCs were elevated. She also had a high fever.
There were questions raised about a Septic event. She 
was then transported to the ICU.

The CBC(complete blood count) ) is one of many

lab values that are helpful as a diagnostic tool.

 The RBCs( red blood cells, WBCs ( white blood count)

         and platelets are part of this test. Conditions such as anemia
and infection can be detected from this blood test.

A blood transfusion may be ordered for the patient with
 anemia. it is important for the nurse to be aware of the signs
of a blood transfusion reaction.

                   Learn more, by clicking on the link :
             Lab values and diagnostic tests 

Learn more about : Anticoagulation Therapy and

Enjoy the video: Anticoagulation therapy

Learn more about: The Circulatory System

YES - THE HEART IS ALWAYS AT WORK

Updated 8/26

Learn more about : The Circulatory System

Scenario: In the above scenario, Mr. R is anxious
and feeling short of breath. 

The patient in Congestive heart failure, will display
signs of anxiety, due to lack of oxygen.The damaged
heart cannot pump blood as efficiently as a healthy 

heart. 

Chest pain and shortness of breath will likely be present. 

As a result of heart damage, fluid backs up into the lungs.

The patient who has an anterior wall myocardial infarction
may develop CHF. A higher level of care is usually needed. 

Watch the videos: Hemoynamic monitoring

CHF/ Cardiogenic Shock

Learn about : the ABG and Code Blue

Learn more about : The Circulatory System

Scenario: Nick was admitted to the hospital with
a history of lung cancer. He calls the nurse with
complaints of a sudden onset of shortness of breath
and sharp chest pain.This topic continues : Here