Vetinerary Assistant Practice Exam

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What does PCV stand for?

Packed cell volume
Platelet cell volume
Peripheral cell volume
Pediatric cell volume

The correct answer is: Packed cell volume

PCV stands for Packed Cell Volume, which is a measure of the proportion of blood that is made up of red blood cells. This value is significant in veterinary medicine as it helps assess the animal's hydration status and can indicate conditions such as anemia, dehydration, or other underlying health issues. The packed cell volume is determined by centrifuging a blood sample, causing the cells to separate and settle to the bottom of a tube. The volume of the cells is then compared to the total volume of the blood sample, giving a percentage value that is crucial for diagnostic purposes. A normal PCV range varies by species, and deviations from this range can lead to further diagnostic evaluation and treatment decisions. In contrast, the other options do not represent established terms in veterinary medicine. Platelet cell volume and peripheral cell volume are not standard metrics used in blood analysis, and while pediatric aspects may be considered in veterinary practices, "pediatric cell volume" is not a recognized term or measurement. Therefore, the correct interpretation of PCV as Packed Cell Volume is essential for understanding veterinary bloodwork and the health status of animals.