What is the normal hematocrit level percentage?

The normal hematocrit level typically falls within a range of about 38% to 52% for adult males and 35% to 47% for adult females, with 45% often cited as a commonly accepted average value for adults. Hematocrit represents the proportion of blood volume that is occupied by red blood cells and is a critical component of assessing a patient’s blood status in clinical settings.

Maintaining a proper hematocrit level is essential for ensuring adequate oxygen transport throughout the body. Levels that are too high or too low can indicate various medical conditions. For instance, elevated hematocrit could suggest dehydration or polycythemia, while a low level could be indicative of anemia or other underlying health issues. Understanding normal hematocrit values is crucial for critical care paramedics, as it aids in rapid assessment and decision-making for patient management.