Steps in the methodical interpretation of the red blood cell parameters of the CBC.
| 1. Interpret the HB value relative to the appropriate reference interval. |
| 2. Interpret the MCV relative to the reference interval. |
| 3. Interpret the MCHC relative to the reference interval. |
| 4. Interpret the RDW relative to the reference interval. |
| 5. Examine the rbc morphology, if available, and correlate morphology with instrument parameters for consistency and quality purposes. Also review for additional diagnostic findings. |
| 6. As a final check on the numerical parameters, examine the RBC, HCT, MCH, and calculate the Rule of Three to ensure that the above interpretations are correct. |
| 7. Use related test results when available, particularly reticulocyte parameters, to verify CBC findings and add diagnostic information. |
| 8. Interpret the rbc parameters for diagnostic significance and correlate with results of wbc and plt parameters. |