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Complete Blood Count (CBC)

Hematocrit (Hct)

Normal range 36–52 % (0.36–0.52 proportion of 1.0 SI). Specimen: Whole blood (EDTA).

Also known as: packed cell volume, PCV.

36–52 %Critical: read below

Reference range

Conventional%
3652
SIproportion of 1.0
0.360.52
SpecimenWhole blood (EDTA)
Conventional range36–52 %
SI range0.36–0.52 proportion of 1.0
Conversion factor×0.01 (conventional → SI)
Critical value< 20% or > 60%
PanelComplete Blood Count (CBC)

Convert any Hematocrit (Hct) result between units on the unit converter.

What is the normal range for Hematocrit (Hct)?

The standard teaching reference range for Hematocrit (Hct) is 36–52 % in conventional units, or 0.36–0.52 proportion of 1.0 in SI units. This value is measured in whole blood (edta).

A commonly taught critical (panic) value is < 20% or > 60%. Critical results are reported to the provider immediately under your facility's policy.

Source: Adult reference values compiled from Pagana & Pagana, Mosby's Diagnostic and Laboratory Test Reference, and Fischbach & Dunning, A Manual of Laboratory and Diagnostic Tests. Reference ranges vary by laboratory, method, age, sex, and population — always use the range printed on the actual result.

Above the range

Common causes of a high Hematocrit (Hct)

  • Dehydration
  • Polycythemia
  • Chronic hypoxia
  • Burns (hemoconcentration)

Below the range

Common causes of a low Hematocrit (Hct)

  • Anemia
  • Hemorrhage
  • Overhydration (dilutional)
  • Pregnancy

At the bedside

Nursing considerations

  • Roughly three times the hemoglobin in g/dL.
  • Falsely elevated with dehydration; recheck after volume resuscitation.

Study aid

Your notes on Hematocrit (Hct)

Same panel

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