DOI : https :// www . doi . org / 10.56496 / FBOC9221

Matthew A Garland , BSc , RSciTech , SAC Dip , Cert Nat Sci , VN , MRSB

Veterinary Pathology Group , Exeter , UK

ENVELOPE matthew . garland81 @ outlook . com

Matthew is a laboratory director and veterinary laboratory manager with over 20 years ' experience in the veterinary field . He holds a degree in chemistry and molecular biology , and is a qualified veterinary nurse and a registered science technician with the Royal Society of Biology ( RSB ). He also holds various postgraduate certificates . Matthew enjoys all things related to the laboratory and has a keen interest in quality assessment / quality control and haematology . He has contributed to several published research projects , presented at all of the major UK veterinary congresses ( BSAVA , BVNA and London Vet Show ), and had several articles published on veterinary haematology and clinical biochemistry . Matthew is currently working for the Veterinary Pathology Group and also enjoys time as a lecturer teaching student veterinary nurses laboratory skills , in addition to delivering regular CPD sessions . He is passionate about the development of teams and individuals , and sits on the registered assessors board of the RSB and is a judge for the RSB Biology Apprentice of the Year .

ABSTRACT The importance of a blood film examination and the skill set needed to assess the morphology of a blood film can be overlooked in practice , in favour of numbers generated by automated analysers . However , ideally , numerical data should be supported by a blood film examination wherever possible .

This two-part series aims to provide a helpful guide to interpreting blood panels for those who are unfamiliar with the topic , and a useful refresher for those who already possess some knowledge . Part 1 discusses haematology , with a focus on cats . Part 2 will cover biochemistry and will conclude with a case report . A glossary of terms is provided at the end of Part 1 .

Keywords blood , film , cell , count , examination , haematology

Introduction

A blood film examination can yield most of the relevant clinical information required from a blood sample without reference to the numerical data provided by an automated analyser , but the converse is not true . The numerical data are only half the story and , ideally , such data should be supported by a blood film examination to avoid clinical errors . In essence , haematological analysis should be both quantitative and qualitative .

The RCVS list of Day 1 skills for veterinary nurses includes ‘ safely and effectively ’ taking blood samples , and haematological analysis , including ‘ biochemistry , haematology , packed cell volume , total solids ( protein ) and smear ’ [ 1 ] . Haematology is the study of blood and blood disorders . Haematological tests can help diagnose anaemia , infection , haemophilia , bloodclotting disorders and leukaemia .

44 Veterinary Nursing Journal