Full Blood Count
What is a full blood count?
A full blood count (FBC) is one of the most common blood tests done. A blood sample is taken which is prevented from clotting by using preservatives in the blood bottle. The sample is put into a machine which automatically:
-counts the number of red cells, white cells, and platelets per ml of blood.
-measures the size of the red blood cells and calculates their average (mean) size.
-calculates the proportion of blood made up from red blood cells (the haematocrit).
-measures the amount of haemoglobin in the red blood cells.
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