An instrument printout reports a WBC count of 12 10⁹/L. The technologist reviews the peripheral blood smear and counts 45 nucleated RBCs. What is the best course of action regarding these findings?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The presence of nucleated RBCs (nRBCs) can cause the automated instruments to falsely report a higher WBC count. To accurately report the WBC count, an adjustment must be made based on the number of nRBCs seen on the peripheral smear. In this case, since 45 nRBCs were counted, an adjustment should be made to decrease the reported WBC count. Therefore, choice C is the best course of action.

An Instrument Printout Reports a WBC Count of 12 109/L

An Instrument Printout Reports a WBC Count of 12 10⁹/L