For calculating ANC, what was the total percentage of bands and polys provided?

The total percentage of bands and polys, which are types of neutrophils, is critical for calculating the Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC). To determine the ANC, one must consider both the mature neutrophils (polys) and the immature neutrophils (bands) because both contribute to the body’s ability to fight infections.

The correct answer reflects a thoughtful summation of the proportions of bands and polys presented in the original data. It is essential to accurately sum these values because the resulting percentage directly affects patient care decisions, such as the management of infections or chemotherapy administration.

In a clinical context, if bands and polys together constitute 26% of the total white blood cell count, knowing this figure is vital for healthcare providers to assess a patient's immune status effectively. The ANC is calculated by multiplying the total white blood cell count by the percentage of neutrophils (bands plus polys). This relationship highlights the importance of understanding and calculating these values accurately in patient management.

Other percentages would not provide the correct reflection of the combined leukocyte population critical for evaluating neutrophil levels in patients, which might lead to misinterpretation of the patient's immunocompromised state. Thus, 26% is the appropriate total for bands and polys