Final answer:
In the context of the lab findings provided, a Hematocrit value of 28% indicates anemia in a school-age child, as it is below the normal range of 36 to 40 percent and associated with a lower volume of red blood cells.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question relates to identifying signs of anemia in a school-age child based on a laboratory report findings. Anemia is characterized by a reduction in red blood cells or hemoglobin, leading to decreased oxygen transport to the body's tissues, causing symptoms like fatigue and weakness.
Among the provided options, a) Hematocrit 28% is the correct answer, which indicates anemia. For a school-age child, normal hematocrit values typically range from 36 to 40 percent. A hematocrit level of 28% is below the normal range, suggesting that the child has a lower volume of red blood cells, in turn signifying anemia. In contrast, b) Hemoglobin 13.5 g/dL, c) WBC count 8,000/mm³, and d) Platelets 250,000/mm³ are within normal ranges and would not indicate anemia.
Iron deficiency anemia is prevalent among children, and when severe, is indicated by a hemoglobin level of 5 to 9 g/100 ml.