examine components of the hematologic system, development of blood cells, mechanisms of homeostasis, and hematologic value changes in pediatrics and geriatrics.

Often in the medical field, an emphasis is placed on the importance of the heart and the lungs. While these two organs are vital to the sustainability of life, the blood is what makes the cardiovascular and respiratory systems function—it’s the connection for the heart and lungs. For this reason, disorders of the hematological system can be potentially devastating for patients. Consider the case of Connie Prochnow. Connie was diagnosed with leukemia after seeking medical care for bruising, shortness of breath, and exhaustion. Her blood disorder resulted in alterations that impacted other body systems, including her respiratory system (UW Health, 2012). Since the heart and the lungs rely so heavily on the blood, it is important that hematological disorders are quickly identified and managed.

Huether, S. E., & McCance, K. L. (2012). Understanding pathophysiology (Laureate custom ed.). St. Louis, MO: Mosby.

Chapter 19, “Structure and Function of the Hematologic System”

This chapter examine components of the hematologic system, development of blood cells, mechanisms of homeostasis, and hematologic value changes in pediatrics and geriatrics. It also focuses on common blood tests for hematologic disorders.