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Biological basis of child health 10: function and formation of blood and common blood disorders in children

Last Reviewed: 22/11/2023
blood disorders in children

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This article, the tenth in a series on the biological basis of child health, focuses on blood. Blood has a crucial role in the transport of substances such as respiratory gases, nutrients and antibodies, as well as in acid-base balance, fluid balance, blood clotting and the immune system.

This article describes the composition, formation and function of blood, outlines normal blood count values and explains the effects of low blood cell counts in children. It also provides an overview of the blood disorders that are commonly seen in children, including anaemia, sickle cell disease, clotting disorders and blood cancers. It is essential for children’s nurses to have knowledge and an understanding of blood, including its physiology and pathophysiology, to provide optimal care and support to children and young people and their families.

Who is this resource for?

Explains what the component is for

This resource is aimed at nurses and nursing support workers across all settings and levels of practice, including students of health, social work and care professions.

Why you should read this article

to refresh your knowledge of the composition, formation and function of blood

to enhance your awareness of the symptoms and management of various blood disorders that are common among children

to count towards revalidation as part of your 35 hours of CPD, or you may wish to write a reflective account (UK readers)

to contribute towards your professional development and local registration renewal requirements (non-UK readers)

Authors

Emily Baker

Senior clinical research nurse in haematology/oncology - Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, England

Doreen Crawford

Nurse adviser - Crawford McKenzie, Colsterworth, England

Kate Davies

Senior lecturer in non-medical prescribing - London South Bank University and honorary research fellow in paediatric endocrinology, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, England

Acknowledgements

The RCN delivers quality-assured and up-to-date resources for the nursing workforce. Reviewed annually, RCN Learn resources meet the RCN Nine Quality Standards.

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PDF Created On: 19 Feb 2025.
Downloaded from https://uatlearnamber.rcn.org.uk/Search/e1278-Biological-basis-of-child-health-10-function.
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Last Reviewed: 22/11/2023