9.2k views
3 votes
A phlebotomy technician is using a point-of-care test system to determine a patient's WBC count. For which of the following results should the technician immediately notify the provider?

A. 1.8/mm3
B. 4.6/mm3
C. 7.4/mm3
D. 10.8/mm3

User Cargowire
by
9.1k points

1 Answer

2 votes

Final answer:

A phlebotomy technician should immediately notify the provider for a WBC count of 1.8/mm³, which is substantially below the normal range, indicating potential medical concerns.

Step-by-step explanation:

A phlebotomy technician using a point-of-care test system to determine a patient's WBC count should immediately notify the provider if the result is A. 1.8/mm³. This value is significantly below the general reference range for a healthy WBC count, which is typically between 3.5 and 11 x 10⁹ cells/L. A low WBC count, known as leukopenia, can indicate an underlying problem with the patient's immune system or bone marrow and might necessitate further medical investigation and treatment.

User Basilisk
by
9.2k points