Complete Blood Count

Definition

A Complete Blood Count (CBC) is a common blood test that measures the levels of various blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It provides critical information about overall health and can help diagnose a variety of conditions related to nutrition and pulmonary function.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A CBC can reveal anemia, which may be caused by nutritional deficiencies impacting oxygen transport in the pulmonary system.
2. Elevated white blood cell counts in a CBC can indicate infection or inflammation that might affect respiratory health.
3. Platelet levels assessed by a CBC are crucial for understanding clotting mechanisms that could influence pulmonary wellness.
4. Nutritional status can directly impact CBC results; for example, iron deficiency anemia will show low hemoglobin levels.
5. CBC results are often used in conjunction with other nutritional assessments to create comprehensive care plans for patients with pulmonary issues.

Review Questions

• How might a Complete Blood Count help identify nutritional deficiencies impacting the pulmonary system?
• What do elevated white blood cell counts in a CBC suggest about a patient's respiratory health?
• Why is it important to assess platelet levels in relation to pulmonary wellness?

Related terms

Hemoglobin: A protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body.

Anemia:

A condition characterized by insufficient red blood cells or hemoglobin, often due to nutritional deficiencies.

Pulmonary Function Test: A group of tests that measure how well the lungs take in and release air and how efficiently they transfer oxygen into the blood.