What effect does low hematocrit have on whole-blood glucose monitoring?

Low hematocrit levels can lead to an increase in whole-blood glucose readings unless adjustments are made in the interpretation of results. When hematocrit is low, the proportion of blood cells in the sample decreases, which can create a relative increase in serum glucose level when measured in whole blood. This occurs because most glucose meters are calibrated to measure glucose in plasma, which has a higher glucose concentration compared to whole blood due to the lower hematocrit dilution effect.

If a meter does not compensate for this factor, the readings obtained may not accurately reflect the true glucose level in plasma. Therefore, without proper mathematical correction for the low hematocrit, the readings may be inaccurately elevated.

Understanding this relationship is crucial for accurate diabetes management, as health care professionals must interpret blood glucose results considering the patient's hematocrit levels—especially in cases of anemia or other conditions causing reduced hematocrit. This is why the correct notion involves the need for adjustments in the context of whole-blood glucose monitoring devices.