Name of the Procedure:

Blood Count; Manual Cell Count (Erythrocyte, Leukocyte, or Platelet)

Summary

A manual blood cell count is a laboratory procedure where a healthcare professional counts the number of red blood cells (erythrocytes), white blood cells (leukocytes), or platelets in a blood sample. This test helps to diagnose and monitor various health conditions.

Purpose

The test assesses the number of different types of cells in your blood. It helps identify conditions such as infections, anemia, and platelet disorders. The expected outcome is accurate blood cell counts to inform diagnosis and treatment plans.

Indications

• Unexplained fatigue or weakness
• Suspected infections or inflammation
• Symptoms such as bruising or bleeding
• Monitoring blood disorders or treatments
• Patients undergoing chemotherapy or other treatments affecting blood cells

Preparation

• No specific preparations are usually needed.
• Follow any instructions given by your healthcare provider.
• Inform your doctor of any medications you are taking, as some can affect the results.

Procedure Description

1. A healthcare provider will draw a small blood sample, usually from a vein in your arm.
2. The blood sample is placed on a glass slide.
3. Using a microscope, a laboratory technician will count the number of red cells, white cells, or platelets.
4. Sometimes, a specialized counting chamber called a hemocytometer is used for more accuracy.

Duration

The blood draw takes approximately 5 minutes. The manual counting process may take about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the sample and technology used.

Setting

The procedure is typically performed in a laboratory setting within a hospital or outpatient clinic.

Personnel

• Phlebotomist or nurse (for blood draw)
• Laboratory technician or medical technologist (for cell count)

Risks and Complications

• Minimal risks associated with blood draw, including slight pain, bruising, or infection at the puncture site.
• Rarely, patients may feel lightheaded or faint.

Benefits

• Accurate cell counts to aid in diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Quick results, often available within a few hours to a day.
• Helps monitor the effectiveness of treatments for various conditions.

Recovery

• No significant recovery required.
• Patients can resume normal activities immediately after the blood draw.
• Follow-up may be necessary based on results and underlying conditions.

Alternatives

• Automated blood cell counters (faster but may be less accurate for certain measurements).
• Bone marrow biopsy in more complex cases of blood disorders.

Patient Experience

• Mild discomfort during blood draw.
• Typically, no pain during the counting process as it is performed on the collected sample.
• Any procedural discomfort is usually minor and temporary.

Pain management and comfort measures may include keeping the puncture site clean and avoiding strenuous activity immediately after the blood draw.