What volume is used in the calculation for corrected reticulocyte count with an Hct of 8% and a normal Hct of 40% with a reticulocyte count of 5%?

To determine the corrected reticulocyte count, the formula used is:

Corrected Reticulocyte Count = (Reticulocyte Count %) × (Patient's Hct / Normal Hct)

In this situation, the patient has a hematocrit (Hct) of 8%, the normal Hct is 40%, and the reticulocyte count is 5%. Plugging these values into the formula gives us:

Corrected Reticulocyte Count = 5% × (8% / 40%)

Calculating the fraction first gives:

8/40 = 0.2

Then, multiplying by the reticulocyte count provides:

5% × 0.2 = 1%

Thus, the volume used in the calculation for the corrected reticulocyte count is 1%. This is significant as it reflects the necessary adjustment made for the patient's low hematocrit level, allowing for a more accurate assessment of bone marrow response to anemia.