Today our topic of discussion is Hemoglobin Estimation.
Hemoglobin Estimation
HEMOGLOBIN ESTIMATION
Estimation of the level of hemoglobin (HB) is essential for the following (Fig. 33.7):
- To check for the presence of anemia and, if present, to what degree
- For the further management, prevention and/or treatment of anemia, in so far as the administration of IFA tablets is concerned (see below, under “Iron-folic acid supplementation’s”).
- If the anemia is severe, the woman may need referral for taking injectable iron preparations or undergo a blood transfusion
- For the diagnosis of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) in an anemic woman, in whom a smaller amount of blood loss is taken as PPH.
Estimate the Hb levels of pregnant women at the initial antenatal visit and again at 28 weeks. The initial Hb level will serve as a baseline to compare with the later results at 28-30 weeks. An Hb level below 11 g/dL at any time in pregnancy is considered to be anemia; an Hb level of 7-11 g/dL as moderate anemia, and less than 7 g/dL as severe anemia.
If the woman is found to be anemic, start her on the therapeutic dose of. Estimate the Hb level again after 1 month. If there is no rise in the Hb level, refer the woman to a higher facility with a good laboratory infrastructure and trained personnel to find out the cause of anemia.
How to measure hemoglobin: The level of hemoglobin is estimated by using a World Health Organization (WHO)- approved.
Hemoglobin color scale: The hemoglobin color scale is a simple, reliable and inexpensive tool developed by WHO to screen for anemia in the absence of laboratory-based hemoglobinometry.
The hemoglobin color scale comprises a small card with six shades of red that represent the Hb levels at 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 and 14 g/dL. The device is simple to use.
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