HOW ARE BLOOD VOLUME ANALYSIS RESULTS INTERPRETED?
The report for a blood volume analysis includes 3 basic parameters: TBV, RCV, and PV. Each parameter is expressed in milliliters and as percentage deviation from the predicted normal value. In addition, the report provides the SD, the normalized hematocrit, and the slope of the line. As we have already seen, the SD gives an indication of the accuracy of the study. Blood Volume Parameters TBV, RCV, and PV are reported in 2 ways: in milliliters and as percentage deviation from the predicted normal volume. The percentage deviation from normal is considered first, to determine whether the patient has a normal, depleted, or expanded volume. The absolute value in milliliters is important for quantifying the blood volume derangement and making treatment decisions. For example, if a patient requires a transfusion, the blood volume deficit in milliliters can help determine how many units of blood are needed. When one is interpreting blood volume analysis studies, the results should be examined
