Lesson 2-6

What blood dilution is used for a platelet count using the Leuko-Chek system?

1:100

What blood dilution is used for a platelet count using the Thrombo-TIC system?

1:100

Why is it important to thoroughly clean the coverglass and hemacytometer before performing the platelet count?

Bits of dirt, oil, or debris can resemble and cause an erroneous count

What PPE must be worn while performing manual platelet counts?

Gloves, fluid resistant buttoned laboratory coat, and a full-face protection

Where do platelets originate?

Platelets are fragments of the cytoplasm of megakaryoctes, large cells in the bone marrow.

What is the function of platelets?

Platelets help initiate the formation of blood clots after injuries to blood vessels.

What are the conditions in which thrombocytosis can occur?

Polycythemia Vera, bleeding disorders, hemolytic anemias, inflammatory reactions, chronic granulocytic leukemia

What is the purpose of placing the loaded hemacytometer in moist chamber?

Prevents the sample on the hemacytometer from drying out while the platelets settle in the chamber

What area of the hemacytometer is used to count platelets?

The entire center square 1mm^2 or 1.0 mm

What is the formula for calculating a platelet count?

Total platelets/microL= Avg number platelets counted x 1000