Master Hematocrit (Hct) Lab Values with Picmonic for Nursing RN

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The hematocrit (Hct) value measures the volume of blood that is made up of red blood cells, and is expressed as a percentage. Increased levels of Hct can be seen in patients who live in a high altitude or in those with polycythemia. Falsely high levels occur in patients who are dehydrated, due to reduced blood volume. Decreased Hct levels can be caused by anemia, hemorrhage, or overhydration. As a general rule, hematocrit is three times the value of hemoglobin (Hgb) in a healthy individual (example: 12 g/dL Hgb x 3 = 36% Hct). Hematocrit is typically higher in males, and should be 41-53% in a healthy individual. In women, the normal range is from 36-46%.

2 KEY FACTS

Hematocrit levels in women typically range from 36-46%, and are expected to be lower than the Hct levels of their male counterparts.

Hematocrit levels are typically higher in men than in women. A normal Hct value in a healthy male should range from 41-53%.

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