July 27 PCV Reaches 16%

Patient 26-519's PCV improved again, reaching 16%.

Examination of her blood cells also showed evidence that her bone marrow was producing new red blood cells.

That was an important finding.

One of the major questions in severe anemia is whether the bone marrow can respond by producing replacement cells. Evidence of new cell production (at a very low rate) suggested that her body was attempting to compensate for the anemia.

She was also considered adequately hydrated at this examination.

Because mild swelling had developed beneath the skin of one leg, believed to be associated with previous fluid administration, fluids were temporarily withheld and her hydration plan adjusted.

This illustrates another routine part of critical care: treatment is not static. Fluids, nutrition and medications are continually modified according to the patient's condition that day.

Although a PCV of 16% remained far below normal, the upward trend and evidence of red blood cell production provided reason for cautious optimism.