Final answer:
Small deviations in counts from a hemocytometer can occur naturally, but significant differences may indicate issues in data collection methods or health problems. Hematocrit values vary by gender, and counting white blood cells in a smear can reveal relative proportions, helping identify normal or abnormal blood conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Counts from each side of the hemocytometer are expected to be quite consistent, but small deviations can occur due to random chance or systematic error. The hematocrit, or packed cell volume (PCV), measures the volume of erythrocytes and normally constitutes about 45 percent of a blood sample. This value can vary, often between 36-50 percent, depending on factors such as gender. Females have normal hematocrit values ranging from 37 to 47, with a mean of 41, while males range from 42 to 52, with a mean of 47. When using a cell counter to tally white blood cells (WBCs) on a blood smear, reaching 100 cells allows for the determination of the relative percentage of each type of white blood cell present. Slight deviations from normal blood counts can occur naturally; however, significant discrepancies might indicate a need to reassess data collection methods or suggest the presence of an infectious disease or blood disorder.