Physical Therapy Assistant Practice Exam

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What does hematocrit measure in regards to blood composition?

Percentage of red blood cells in a volume of blood
Concentration of white blood cells
Levels of clotting factors in the blood
Plasma protein levels

The correct answer is: Percentage of red blood cells in a volume of blood

Hematocrit is a common blood test that specifically measures the proportion of blood that is made up of red blood cells. This measurement is expressed as a percentage, indicating how much of the total blood volume is occupied by red blood cells. Red blood cells are crucial for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body and carrying carbon dioxide back to the lungs for exhalation. The measurement of hematocrit provides valuable information about a person's overall blood health and can help in diagnosing conditions such as anemia, dehydration, and other blood-related disorders. A low hematocrit level may indicate that there are insufficient red blood cells, which can result in decreased oxygen delivery to tissues, while a high level may suggest dehydration or other conditions that increase red blood cell production. Understanding that hematocrit focuses solely on the percentage of red blood cells allows healthcare providers to make informed decisions about further evaluation and treatment based on a patient’s blood composition. Other options, while relevant to blood composition, do not specifically correlate with what hematocrit measures.