The steps for interpreting the platelet portion of a complete blood count.
| 1. Interpret the total platelet count relative to the reference interval. |
| 2. Examine the MPV and compare to the reference interval. |
| 3. Examine the PDW and compare to the reference interval. |
| 4. Examine the platelet distribution histogram for evidence of interferences. Take steps to correct these and reassess Steps 1-3 based on the revised results. |
| 5. Examine the IPF and compare to the reference interval. |
| 6. Correlate the numerical parameters with platelet morphology. |
| 7. Correlate platelet results with rbc and wbc parameters and conduct clinical assessment of the patient's values. |