Complete (cbc), automated (hgb, hct, rbc, wbc; without platelet count)
HCPCS code
Name of the Procedure:
Complete Blood Count (CBC), Automated (HGB, HCT, RBC, WBC; Without Platelet Count)
Summary
A Complete Blood Count (CBC) is a common blood test that measures various components of your blood, including hemoglobin (HGB), hematocrit (HCT), red blood cells (RBC), and white blood cells (WBC), without counting platelets. The test is automated and helps doctors assess your overall health and detect a variety of disorders, such as infections, anemia, and leukemia.
Purpose
The CBC test evaluates the different elements of the blood and assists healthcare providers in diagnosing conditions like anemia, infections, and many other diseases. The goal is to gain comprehensive insight into your health, enabling early detection and management of potential health issues.
Indications
- Fatigue, weakness, or symptoms suggestive of anemia
- Symptoms of infection (fever, chills, etc.)
- Symptoms indicating blood disorders (unusual bruising, bleeding)
- Monitoring a known condition
- Pre-surgical evaluation
Preparation
- No special preparation is usually needed
- Inform the healthcare provider about any medications you are taking
- Follow any specific instructions from your healthcare provider
Procedure Description
- Blood Sample Collection:
- A healthcare professional will clean the area where the blood will be drawn.
- A needle is inserted into a vein, typically in the arm.
- Blood is collected into one or more vials.
Analysis:
- The blood samples are sent to a laboratory.
- Automated machines analyze the blood components, providing detailed counts and measurements.
Duration
The blood draw itself takes only a few minutes. Laboratory analysis can take a few hours to a day, depending on the facility.
Setting
The procedure is typically performed in a doctor's office, outpatient clinic, or hospital laboratory.
Personnel
- Phlebotomist or nurse to draw the blood
- Laboratory technicians or technologists to analyze the blood sample
- A doctor to interpret the results
Risks and Complications
- Minor pain or bruising at the needle insertion site
- Rarely, infection or excessive bleeding
- Feeling lightheaded or fainting
Benefits
- Quick and simple test providing essential health information
- Early detection of potential health issues
- Helps guide further diagnostic testing and treatment decisions
Recovery
- No special recovery period is required
- Most people can return to their normal activities immediately after the test
- Follow any specific post-procedure instructions from your healthcare provider
Alternatives
- Manual differential blood count (less common, more detailed for specific cases)
- Other diagnostic blood tests might be performed based on initial results
- Non-invasive health monitoring techniques (used less frequently for these purposes)
Patient Experience
- Mild discomfort from the needle stick
- Brief procedure with quick turnaround for results
- Healthcare providers will offer comfort measures to minimize anxiety and discomfort