Interpretation should include
- linking abnormal hematology laboratory results (e.g., erythrocyte sedimentation rate [ESR]) with disease processes (e.g., leukemia, cat-scratch disease, inflammatory bowel disease)
- determining when to refer results to a designated specialist
- following the process for reporting critical values.
Process/Skill Questions:
- What abnormalities will be seen in the CBC and WBC differential when a patient has sepsis?
- How can a reticulocyte count be linked to anemia?
- Why does a sickle cell cause anemia?