Lab Values Objectives Flashcards
Qualitative
data that doesn’t have a number associated with it
Quantitative
numeric measurements
Sensitivity
the ability to detect; true positive
Use clinical judgement when evaluating a patient’s laboratory test results and overall presentation to determine if a lab value is critical
Look at overall clinical picture, presence of signs or symptoms, and look at the trend instead of the absolute number
Identify laboratory and patient factors that could influence lab test results
Calculation or input error, misreading of results, incorrect specimen handling, timing drawn, age of patient, biological rhythms, pregnancy, and fluid status
Na reference range
135 - 145
Cl reference range
96 - 106
BUN reference range
8 - 20
K reference range
3.5 - 5
CO2 reference range
22 - 32
SCr reference range
0.7 - 1.2
Glucose reference range
70 - 110
Hyponatremia
often due to dilution and can cause seizures and coma
Hypernatremia
signs are thirst, irritability, seizures, hyperreflexia coma, and death; is common in long distance runners due to the water loss
Hypokalemia
can be caused by insulin, dextrose, diet, meds, vomiting, and diarrhea
Hyperkalemia
signs include bradycardia, rhythm disturbances, and cardiac arrest. Can be caused by crush injuries, burns, or hemolysis because the damaged cells release the potassium. It can also be caused by increased intake of potassium or decreased output due to renal failure or drugs.
Metabolic alkalosis
signs include headache, lethargy, and tetany
Metabolic acidosis
signs include increased respiratory rate
What is increased BUN indicative of
decreased kidney function
What is decreased BUN indicative of
nutrition deficit
Hypermagnesia
signs include decreased respiratory rate, cardiac arrest, and decreased blood pressure
Hypercalcemia
signs include constipation and kidney stones; caused by vitamin D toxicity
Hypocalcemia
signs include tetany and paresthesias
Hyperphosphatemia
signs include tetany and paresthesias. Can be caused by chronic kidney disease
