When performing a reticulocyte count, _________ total red cells are counted in consecutive oil-immersion fields.

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When performing a reticulocyte count, 1000 total red cells (or sometimes 500 red cells in the case of an automated method) are counted in order to accurately calculate the percentage of reticulocytes present in the specimen. This is typically done using a specialized stain, such as supravital stain, which allows for visualization of the remaining RNA in reticulocytes. The reticulocyte count is used to assess bone marrow function and can indicate conditions such as anemia or erythropoietin therapy response.

When Performing a Reticulocyte Count, _________ Total Red Cells Are