Lab Values Podcast by NURSING.com (Nursing Podcast, normal lab values for nurses for NCLEX®) by NURSING.com (NRSNG)
- Épisodes
- 90
- Parution
- hebdomadaire
- Dernier épisode
- 30 Juil 2026
À propos du podcast
By Jon Haws RN: Critical Care Nurse NCLEX Educator Quick . . . is the aPTT within normal range? Are you sweating a bit? Nervous? Head over to NURSING.com/freebies for our free cheat sheet covering the 63 most important lab values for nurses. This podcast covers one essential lab value for episode including normal ranges, nursing considerations, and background information. Normal lab values are hard to keep straight. This show includes the most common including: Creatinine, WBC, BUN, aPTT, blood gasses, and more. Welcome to the Nursing family! For full disclaimer information visit nursing.com.
Épisodes 90
Albumin
Get a free nursing lab values cheat sheet at NURSING.com/63labs What is the Lab Name for Albumin Lab Values? Albumin What is the Lab Abbreviation for Albumin? alb What is Albumin in terms of Nursing Labs? …
Notes de l’épisode
Get a free nursing lab values cheat sheet at NURSING.com/63labs
What is the Lab Name for Albumin Lab Values?Albumin
What is the Lab Abbreviation for Albumin?alb
What is Albumin in terms of Nursing Labs?Albumin is a transport protein in the blood. It helps maintain the oncotic pressure of the blood. Albumin levels will drop if synthesis is slowed, protein intake is inadequate, or there are increased losses. Albumin has a long half life, however, so levels are not a good indicator of acute illness.
What is the Normal Range for Albumin?3.5 – 6.0 g/dL
What are the Indications for Albumin?- Evaluation of chronic illness
- Liver disease
- Nutritional status
What would cause Increased Levels of Albumin?
- Dehydration
- Hyper infusion
- Albumin
- Inadequate intake
- Liver disease
- Inflammation
- Chronic disease
- Losses (fistula, hemorrhage, kidney disease, burns)
- Over hydration
- Increased catabolism
- Congestive heart failure
Triglycerides (TG) Lab Values
Normal Indications Evaluate for: Elevated triglycerides Risk for atherosclerotic heart disease and stroke Description Triglycerides (TG) are required to provide energy during the metabolic process, excess …
Notes de l’épisode
Normal
Indications
- Evaluate for:
- Elevated triglycerides
- Risk for atherosclerotic heart disease and stroke
Description Triglycerides (TG) are required to provide energy during the metabolic process, excess triglycerides are stored in adipose tissue.
What would cause increased levels?
- Myocardial Infarction (MI)
- Alcoholism
- Alcoholic cirrhosis
- High carbohydrate diet
- Anorexia nervosa
- Cirrhosis
- Hypertension (HTN)
- Nephrotic Syndrome
- Obesity
- Renal failure
- Pancreatitis
- Stress
What would cause decreased levels?
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Liver disease
- Hyperthyroidism
- Malnutrition
- Malabsorption
- Evaluate for:
Sodium (Na+) Lab Values
Normal 135-145 mEq/L Indications Monitor: Extracellular osmolality Electrolyte imbalance Description Sodium (Na+) is the most abundant cation in extracellular fluid. Sodium aids in osmotic pressure, renal …
Notes de l’épisode
Normal 135-145 mEq/L
Indications
- Monitor:
- Extracellular osmolality
- Electrolyte imbalance
Description Sodium (Na+) is the most abundant cation in extracellular fluid. Sodium aids in osmotic pressure, renal retention and excretion of water, acid-base balance, regulation of other cations and anions in the body. Sodium plays a role in blood pressure regulation and stimulation of neuromuscular reactions. Sodium and water have a direct relationship; water follows salt.
What would cause increased levels?
- Cushing Syndrome
- Hyperaldosteronism
- Dehydration
- Burn injury
- Azotemia (elevated nitrogen)
- Lactic acidosis (LA)
- Fever/excessive sweating
- Excessive IV fluids containing sodium
- Diabetes Insipidus
- Osmotic diuresis
What would cause decreased levels?
- Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)
- Syndrome of Inappropriate
- Antidiuretic Hormone (SIADH)
- Cystic Fibrosis
- Diuretic use
- Metabolic acidosis
- Addison's Disease
- Nephrotic Syndrome
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Ascites
- Excessive Antidiuretic
- Hormone(ADH)
- Liver failure
Potassium (K+) Lab Values
Normal 3.5 - 5.0 mEq/L Indications Evaluate: Electrolyte imbalances Cardiac arrhythmias Monitor patients who are: Acidotic Receiving diuretic therapy Description Potassium (K+) is the most abundant …
Notes de l’épisode
Normal 3.5 - 5.0 mEq/L
Indications
- Evaluate:
- Electrolyte imbalances
- Cardiac arrhythmias
- Monitor patients who are:
- Acidotic
- Receiving diuretic therapy
Description
Potassium (K+) is the most abundant intracellular cation and plays a vital role in the transmission of electrical impulses in cardiac and skeletal muscle. It plays a role in acid base equilibrium. In states of acidosis hydrogen will enter the cell which will force potassium out of the cell. A 0.1 decrease in pH will cause a 0.5 increase in K+.
What would cause increased levels?
- Renal failure
- Hypoaldosteronism
- Addison's disease
- Injury to tissues
- Diabetes Mellitus (DM)
- Ketoacidosis
- Hyperventilation
- Acidosis
- Infection
- Dehydration
- Burns
What would cause decreased levels?
- Hyperaldosteronism
- Excess insulin
- Alkalosis
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Cystic Fibrosis
- Cushing Syndrome
- Evaluate:
Partial Thromboplastin Time (PTT) Lab Values
Normal 25 - 35 seconds Indications Detection of coagulation disorders Evaluate response to Heparin (PT for Coumadin) Preoperative assessment Description Partial Thromboplastin Time (PTT)evaluates the function …
Notes de l’épisode
Normal 25 - 35 seconds
Indications
- Detection of coagulation disorders
- Evaluate response to Heparin (PT for Coumadin)
- Preoperative assessment
Description
Partial Thromboplastin Time (PTT)evaluates the function of factors I, II, V, VIII, IX, X, XI, and XII. PTT represents the amount of time required for a fibrin clot to form. Monitors therapeutic ranges for people taking Heparin.
What would cause increased levels?
- Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)
- Clotting Factor Deficiencies:
- Hypofibrinogenemia
- Von Willebrand Disease
- Hemophilia
- Liver disease:
- Cirrhosis
- Vitamin K deficiency
- Polycythemia
- Dialysis
What would cause decreased levels?
- N/A
Oxygen Saturation (SaO2) Lab Values
Normal 95 - 100% Indications Determine respiratory status Part of Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) testing Description Oxygen saturation (SaO2) is a measurement of the percentage of how much hemoglobin is saturated …
Notes de l’épisode
Normal 95 - 100%
Indications
- Determine respiratory status
- Part of Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) testing
Description Oxygen saturation (SaO2) is a measurement of the percentage of how much hemoglobin is saturated with oxygen. Oxygen is transported in the blood in two ways: oxygen dissolved in blood plasma (pO2) and oxygen bound to hemoglobin (SaO2). About 97% of oxygen is bound to hemoglobin while 3% is dissolved in plasma. SaO2 and pO2 have direct relationships, if one is decreased so is the other. The relationship between oxygen saturation (SaO2) and partial pressure O2 (PaO2) is referred to as the oxyhemoglobin (HbO2) dissociation curve. SaO2 of about 90% is associated with PaO2 of about 60 mmHg.
What would cause increased levels?
- Polycythemia
- Increased inspired O2
- Hyperventilation
What would cause decreased levels?
- Anemia's
- Hypoventilation
- Bronchospasm
- Mucus plugs
- Atelectasis
- Pneumothorax
- Pulmonary edema
- Adult respiratory distress syndrome
Osmolality Lab Values
Normal 261 – 280 mOsm/kg Indications Monitor: Electrolyte balance Acid-Base balance Hydration Evaluate function of antidiuretic hormone. Description Osmolality is a measure of the particles in solution. The …
Notes de l’épisode
Normal 261 – 280 mOsm/kg
Indications
- Monitor:
- Electrolyte balance
- Acid-Base balance
- Hydration
- Evaluate function of antidiuretic hormone.
Description Osmolality is a measure of the particles in solution. The size, shape, and charge of the particles do not impact the osmolality
What would cause increased levels?
- Dehydration
- Azotemia
- Hypercalcemia
- Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar Nonketotic State (HHNS)
- Hypernatremia
- Diabetes Insipidus
- Hyperglycemia
- Mannitol therapy
- Uremia
- Severe pyelonephritis
- Shock
- Ketosis
What would cause decreased levels?
- Hyponatremia
- Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone (SIADH)
- Overhydration
- Monitor:
Magnesium (Mg) Lab Values
Normal 1.6 – 2.6 mg/dL Indications Monitor: Renal failure Chronic alcoholism Cardiac arrhythmias Description Magnesium (Mg) is a cation necessary for protein synthesis, nucleic acid synthesis, muscle …
Notes de l’épisode
Normal 1.6 – 2.6 mg/dL
Indications
- Monitor:
- Renal failure
- Chronic alcoholism
- Cardiac arrhythmias
Description Magnesium (Mg) is a cation necessary for protein synthesis, nucleic acid synthesis, muscle contraction, ATP (adenosine triphosphate) use, nerve impulse conduction, and blood clotting. Magnesium affects the absorption of sodium, calcium, phosphorus, potassium.
What would cause increased levels?
- Renal insufficiency
- Uncontrolled Diabetes Mellitus (DM)
- Addison Disease
- Dehydration
- Hypothyroidism
- Overuse of antacids
- Tissue trauma
What would cause decreased levels?
- Alcoholism
- Diabetic acidosis
- Renal failure:
- Glomerulonephritis
- Hypercalcemia
- Malnutrition
- Malabsorption
- Hypoparathyroidism
- Diarrhea
- Monitor:
Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) Lab Values
Normal Indications Useful in determining risk of cardiovascular disease. Description Cholesterol is transported via lipoproteins. There are multiple types of lipoproteins and they each have slightly different …
Notes de l’épisode
Normal
Indications
- Useful in determining risk of cardiovascular disease.
Description
Cholesterol is transported via lipoproteins. There are multiple types of lipoproteins and they each have slightly different functions: high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein, LDL, and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL). LDL cholesterol is considered bad cholesterol because as it travels through the blood, it deposits cholesterol into the lining of blood vessels, causing atherosclerosis and an increase in cardiovascular disease.
What would cause increased levels?
- Diet high in saturated fats
- Nephrotic Syndrome
- Alcoholism
- Chronic liver disease:
- Hepatitis
- Cirrhosis
- Hypothyroidism
- Cushing's Syndrome
What would cause decreased levels?
- Regular physical activity
- Hyperthyroidism
- Hypoproteinemia:
- Malabsorption
- Severe burns
- Malnutrition
Lactic Acid Lab Values
Normal 0.3 -2.6 mmol/L Indications Determine cause of acidosis Evaluate tissue oxygenation Description Lactate (Lactic Acid) is a byproduct of anaerobic metabolism. Normally, the tissues use aerobic metabolism …
Notes de l’épisode
Normal 0.3 -2.6 mmol/L
Indications
- Determine cause of acidosis
- Evaluate tissue oxygenation
Description Lactate (Lactic Acid) is a byproduct of anaerobic metabolism. Normally, the tissues use aerobic metabolism to breakdown glucose for energy and the byproduct is CO2 and H2O which we excrete through our kidneys and exhalation. However, if the tissues are starved of oxygen (hypoxic), they use anaerobic metabolism. This can be compounded if the liver is also hypoxic causing the liver to be unable to clear the lactic acid.
What would cause increased levels?
- Shock
- Sepsis
- Tissue ischemia
- Carbon monoxide poisoning
- Lactic acidosis
- Diabetes Mellitus (DM)
- Heart failure
- Pulmonary edema
- Strenuous exercise
What would cause decreased levels?
- N/A
International Normalized Ratio (INR) Lab Values
Normal 0.8 - 1.2 Therapeutic Levels of Warfarin 2.0 – 3.5 Indications Evaluate therapeutic doses of Warfarin Identify patients at higher risk for bleeding Identify cause of: Bleeding Deficiencies Description …
Notes de l’épisode
Normal 0.8 - 1.2 Therapeutic Levels of Warfarin 2.0 – 3.5
Indications
- Evaluate therapeutic doses of Warfarin
- Identify patients at higher risk for bleeding
- Identify cause of:
- Bleeding
- Deficiencies
Description International normalized ratio(INR) takes results from a prothrombin time test and standardizes it regardless of collection method.
What would cause increased levels?
- Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)
- Liver disease
- Vitamin K deficiency
- Warfarin
What would cause decreased levels?
- Too much vitamin K
- Estrogen containing medications such as birth control
High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) Lab Values
Normal >60 optimal mg/dL Indications Monitor risks of heart disease Description Cholesterol is transported via lipoproteins. There are multiple types of lipoproteins and they each have slightly different …
Notes de l’épisode
Normal >60 optimal mg/dL
Indications
- Monitor risks of heart disease
Description Cholesterol is transported via lipoproteins. There are multiple types of lipoproteins and they each have slightly different functions: high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL). HDL cholesterol is considered the good cholesterol because it travels through the blood picking up extra cholesterol and taking it back to the liver.
What would cause increased levels?
- Familial HDL Lipoproteinemia
- Exercise
- Unsaturated fats:
- Mono-
- Poly-
- Hypothyroid
What would cause decreased levels?
- Metabolic Syndrome
- Hepatocellular disease:
- Hepatitis
- Cirrhosis
- Hypoproteinemia:
- Nephrotic Syndrome
- Malnutrition
- Smoking
- High saturated and trans fat diets
- Excess body weight
- Hyperthyroid
Glycosylated Hemoglobin(HgbA1c) Lab Values
Normal 5.6-7.5 % of total Hgb Indications Assess control of blood sugars over a several month time frame Diagnose Diabetes Mellitus (DM) Description Glycosylated Hemoglobin (HbA1c) is the combination of glucose …
Notes de l’épisode
Normal 5.6-7.5 % of total Hgb
Indications
- Assess control of blood sugars over a several month time frame
- Diagnose Diabetes Mellitus (DM)
Description
Glycosylated Hemoglobin (HbA1c) is the combination of glucose and hemoglobin. When glucose is elevated in the blood the amount of glycosylated hemoglobin increases proportionally. A red blood cells lifespan is about 4 months, so you can get an idea of blood sugar control over the last several months.
What would cause increased levels?
- Poorly controlled Diabetes Mellitus(DM)
- Non-Diabetic Hyperglycemia:
- Stress
- Cushing Syndrome
- Pheochromocytoma
- Corticosteroid Therapy
What would cause decreased levels?
- Renal failure
- Blood loss
- Hemolytic anemia
- Sickle cell anemia
Folic Acid Lab Values
Normal 2 - 20 ng/mL Indications Diagnose megaloblastic anemia Monitor effects of long-term Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) Identify Folate Deficiency Description Folic acid is an essential water soluble B …
Notes de l’épisode
Normal 2 - 20 ng/mL
Indications
- Diagnose megaloblastic anemia
- Monitor effects of long-term Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN)
- Identify Folate Deficiency
Description Folic acid is an essential water soluble B vitamin. It is stored in the liver and is an important part of Red Blood Cell (RBC) and White Blood Cell (WBC) function, DNA replication, and cell division.
What would cause increased levels?
- Excess folate intake
What would cause decreased levels?
- Vitamin B12 deficiency
- Pernicious anemia
- Hemolytic anemia
- Celiac Disease or Crohn Disease
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBS)
- Alcoholism
- Malnutrition
Ferritin Lab Values
Normal 20-300 ng/mL Indications Diagnosing: Iron-deficiency anemiaH emochromatosis Monitor: Iron levels Description Ferritin is a protein that stores iron. It is formed in the liver spleen and bone marrow …
Notes de l’épisode
Normal 20-300 ng/mL
Indications
- Diagnosing:
- Iron-deficiency anemiaH
- emochromatosis
- Monitor:
- Iron levels
Description
Ferritin is a protein that stores iron. It is formed in the liver spleen and bone marrow. Ferritin in the blood is usually proportional to stored ferritin. Ferritin is a more sensitive and specific test for identifying iron-deficiency anemia, however, it is usually measured in conjunction with total iron binding capacity and iron.
What would cause increased levels?
- Inflammation
- Alcoholic liver disease
- Multiple blood transfusions
- Hemochromatosis
What would cause decreased levels?
- Long term Gastrointestinal(GI) bleeding
- Iron-deficiency anemia
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Diagnosing:
Chloride (Cl- ) Lab Values
Normal 96-108 mEq/L Indications Identify Acid-Base Imbalance Description Chloride (Cl-), an anion found in the blood, works together with sodium to help maintain oncotic pressure and water balance in the body …
Notes de l’épisode
Normal 96-108 mEq/L
Indications
- Identify Acid-Base Imbalance
Description
Chloride (Cl-), an anion found in the blood, works together with sodium to help maintain oncotic pressure and water balance in the body. Chloride is inversely related to bicarbonate levels in the blood. Chloride is also part of hydrochloric acid (HCL) which is utilized in the stomach to breakdown food. When red blood cells (RBCs) take up CO2 they take up chloride as well. The negative ion bicarbonate then leaves the red blood cell so that the electrical charge is maintained. Extra chloride is excreted into the urine by the kidneys.
What would cause increased levels?
- Dehydration
- Acute Renal Failure
- Cushing Disease
- Metabolic Acidosis
- Respiratory Alkalosis.
What would cause decreased levels?
- Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)
- Water intoxication
- Burns
- Metabolic Alkalosis
- Respiratory Acidosis
- Addison Disease
- Salt-losing Nephritis
- Excessive sweating
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
Calcium (Ca2+) Lab Values
Normal 8.4-10.2 mg/dL Indications Identify problems with: Parathyroid Neuromuscular functions Diseases that affect bone Effectiveness of treatments. Description Calcium (Ca+), a positive ion in the body, is …
Notes de l’épisode
Normal 8.4-10.2 mg/dL
Indications
- Identify problems with:
- Parathyroid
- Neuromuscular functions
- Diseases that affect bone
- Effectiveness of treatments.
Description
Calcium (Ca+), a positive ion in the body, is necessary for neuromuscular processes, bone mineralization, and hormonal secretion. The parathyroid gland and vitamin D are responsible for calcium regulation in the body. In the blood, about half of calcium travels in ion form, the other half is bound to proteins like albumin. When albumin levels are low, calcium levels will appear lower. Calcium has an important relationship with phosphorus: they are inversely proportional.
What would cause increased levels?
- Cancers:
- Breast, lung, and multiple myeloma are the most common
- Hyperparathyroidism
- Acidosis
- Renal transplant
- Sarcoidosis
- Vitamin D toxicity
- Dehydration
What would cause decreased levels?
- Malnutrition
- Cirrhosis
- Chronic Renal Failure
- Hypoparathyroidism
- Alkalosis
- Hypomagnesemia
- Hypoalbuminemia
- Hyperphosphatemia
- Malabsorption
- Alcoholism
- Osteomalacia
- Vitamin D deficiency
- Identify problems with:
Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) Lab Values
Normal 12-37 U/L Indications Monitor progression of: Liver disease Response to treatments. Monitor liver toxic medications Description Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) is an enzyme primarily found in liver and …
Notes de l’épisode
Normal 12-37 U/L
Indications
- Monitor progression of:
- Liver disease
- Response to treatments.
- Monitor liver toxic medications
Description Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) is an enzyme primarily found in liver and heart cells, and to a smaller extent, AST can also be found in the pancreas, kidneys, skeletal muscle, and brain. Levels of AST increase from cell death (necrosis) because the AST enzyme is released into the blood.
What would cause increased levels?
- Liver disease
- Liver cancer
- Shock
- Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)
- Pericarditis
- Biliary tract obstruction
- Dermatomyositis
- Pancreatitis
- Muscular Dystrophy
- CVA
- Hemolytic anemia
- Delirium Tremens (DT)
What would cause decreased levels?
- N/A
- Monitor progression of:
Amylase Lab Values
Normal 0-130 U/L Indications Diagnosing: Pancreatitis Pancreatic Duct Obstruction Macroamylasemia Trauma to Pancreas Description Amylase is made in the pancreas. It is an enzyme that breaks down carbohydrates …
Notes de l’épisode
Normal 0-130 U/L
Indications
- Diagnosing:
- Pancreatitis
- Pancreatic Duct Obstruction
- Macroamylasemia
- Trauma to Pancreas
Description Amylase is made in the pancreas. It is an enzyme that breaks down carbohydrates to allow our body to absorb it. Monitoring amylase levels can help identify problems with the pancreas.
What would cause increased levels?
- Pancreatitis
- Pancreatic Cancer
- Pancreatic Cyst
- DKA
- Peritonitis
- Abdominal Trauma
- Duodenal Obstruction
- Mumps
- Alcohol use
What would cause decreased levels?
- Pancreatic Insufficiency
- Pancreatectomy
- Toxemia of Pregnancy
- Cystic Fibrosis
- Liver Disease
- Diagnosing:
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Notes de l’épisode
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Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT) Lab Values
Normal 30-40 seconds Indications Identifying congenital deficiencies in clotting Monitoring heparin therapeutic levels (PT for warfarin) Monitoring effects of: Liver Disease Protein Deficiency Fat malabsorption …
Notes de l’épisode
Normal 30-40 seconds
Indications
- Identifying congenital deficiencies in clotting
- Monitoring heparin therapeutic levels (PT for warfarin)
- Monitoring effects of:
- Liver Disease
- Protein Deficiency
- Fat malabsorption on clotting
Description Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT) is a test that measures the amount of time it takes for a fibrin clot to form after reagents have been added to the specimen. It is useful in diagnosing clotting disorders. In conjunction with PT it can be used to differentiate the specific factor that may be missing.
What would cause increased (Prolonged) levels?
- Vitamin K Deficiency
- Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)
- Hemodialysis Patients
- Afibrinogenemia
- Polycythemia
- Liver disease
- Von Willebrand Disease.
What would cause decreased levels?
- N/A
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Hi NURSING.com family. Are you getting ready for the NCLEX?? This show is the perfect NCLEX review, and as ALWAYS, we have pulled out the MOST important info that you need to become an Amazing nurse! Listen in …
Notes de l’épisode
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Urinalysis (UA) Lab Values
Overview Urinalysis Color & Clarity Protein RBC WBC Glucose Specific gravity Ketones pH Bilirubin/Urobilinogen Nursing Points General Normal value range Color & Clarity Normal – Yellow Other colors Drug …
Notes de l’épisode
Overview- Urinalysis
- Color & Clarity
- Protein
- RBC
- WBC
- Glucose
- Specific gravity
- Ketones
- pH
- Bilirubin/Urobilinogen
- Normal value range
- Color & Clarity
- Normal – Yellow
- Other colors
- Drug interactions
- Propofol – green
- Methylene blue – blue/green
- Trauma
- Red/Brown
- Liver failure
- Brown/tea colored
- Drug interactions
- Clear – Normal
- Cloudy
- Cell or contaminant related
- Turbid
- Severe presence of cells (WBC, RBC)
- Cloudy
- Other colors
- Normal – Yellow
- pH
- ~6
- Changes in body condition can change pH
- Metabolic acidosis/alkalosis
- ~6
- Protein
- 0-trace
- Glomerular permeability/infection
- RBC
- 0-2
- Bleeding
- Trauma/injury below kidneys
- WBC
- Negative
- Sepsis/Infection/UTI
- Glucose
- Negative
- Diabetes
- Ketones
- Negative
- Presence of ketones can indicate endocrine disease like Diabetes
- Urine Specific Gravity
- 1.010-1.030
- Facilities vary
- Ability to concentrate urine
- Hydration
- Overhydration
- Decreased USG
- Dehydration
- Increased USG
- Overhydration
- Diabetes insipidus
- Causes increased diuresis
- SIADH (Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone)
- Causes decreased diuresis
- Bilirubin/Urobilinogen
- Negative
- Presence indicates potential liver problems
- Negative
- Color & Clarity
- Lab Values
- Elimination
- Urinalysis
White Blood Cell (WBC) Lab Values
Overview White Blood Cells Normal Value Range Pathophysiology Special considerations Abnormal values (high) Abnormal values (low) Nursing Points General Normal value range WBC 4500-10000/mcL Differential …
Notes de l’épisode
Overview- White Blood Cells
- Normal Value Range
- Pathophysiology
- Special considerations
- Abnormal values (high)
- Abnormal values (low)
- Normal value range
- WBC
- 4500-10000/mcL
- Differential
- Neutrophils
- 40-60%
- Bands
- 3-5%
- >8% indicates signal to WBC for more production
- Infection or inflammation is severe
- 3-5%
- Eosinophils
- 1-4%
- Basophils
- 0.5-1%
- Lymphocytes
- 20-40%
- Monocytes
- 2-8%
- Neutrophils
- WBC
- Pathophysiology
- WBC
- Formed in the bone marrow
- Responsible for responding to foreign invaders
- Creating antibodies (immunity)
- Phagocytosis (eating bacteria or fungi)
- Multiple types with different purposes
- Neutrophils –
- inflammation and first response to invader
- Eosinophils –
- Inflammation
- Allergic response
- Parasites
- Basophils
- Inflammation
- Allergic response
- Lymphocytes
- Create antibodies
- Recognize antigens
- Destroy cells
- T Cells
- B Cells
- Natural Killer cells
- Monocytes
- Macrophages
- Engulf and destroy invaders
- Indicative of infection
- Macrophages
- Neutrophils –
- WBC
- Special considerations
- Lavender top tube
- Will commonly be submitted for Complete Blood Count with differential
- Abnormal lab values
- Increased White Blood Cell count (leukocytosis)
- Infection
- Inflammation
- Trauma/Stress
- Pregnancy
- Asthma
- Allergic Reaction
- Decreased lab values (leukopenia)
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)/Rheumatoid arthritis
- Cancers
- Chemotherapy/Radiation
- Medications
- Neutropenic precautions
- Masks
- Gloves
- Wash hands
- Consider yourself infectious
- Prevent spread of infection to the patient
- Neutropenic precautions
- Increased White Blood Cell count (leukocytosis)
- Consider the overall WBC count plus abnormalities in differential
- Evaluate patient
- Signs or symptoms of:
- Trauma
- Inflammation
- Infection
- Signs or symptoms of:
- Evaluate patient
- Antibiotic therapies where indicated by infection (followed by cultures to determine efficacy of antibiotics)
- Anti-inflammatories for inflammation
- Provide neutropenic precautions when necessary
- Lab Values
- Infection Control
- Educate patient on the finishing any antibiotics completely. Do not stop prior, even if the patient says they are feeling better.
- White Blood Cells
Troponin I (cTNL) Lab Values
Overview Troponin I Normal value range Pathophysiology Special considerations Elevations in lab values Nursing Points General Normal value range Typically, less than 0.035 ng/mL or less Can vary among …
Notes de l’épisode
Overview- Troponin I
- Normal value range
- Pathophysiology
- Special considerations
- Elevations in lab values
- Normal value range
- Typically, less than 0.035 ng/mL or less
- Can vary among institutions
- Has to be greater than the 99th percentile
- Pathophysiology
- Troponin is released during myocardial cell damage
- Decreased perfusion causes myocardial cell damage
- Causes of myocardial cell damage
- Myocardial infarction
- Demand ischemia
- Cardiogenic
- ACS
- Noncardiogenic
- Sepsis
- Renal failure
- Extreme exercise
- Cardiogenic
- Special considerations
- Submitted in green top tube
- Value peak
- Detection 6-12 hours after acute injury
- Peaks 24 hours after injury
- Can stay elevated for a week
- Knowing patient history is critical
- Increased values
- Any elevated value is typically considered critical
- Acute elevations warrant immediate investigation
- Typically PCI (percutaneous coronary intervention)/Angiography and EKG to rule out MI or ACS (acute coronary syndrome)
- Other elevations
- CABG
- Extreme exercise
- End Stage Renal Failure
- Assess for:
- Acute chest pain
- Symptoms of MI
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Angina in any form
- Reflux (especially in women)
- EKG
- Angiography or PCI
- Management of non-cardiogenic etiology
- Lab Values
- Perfusion
- Educate patient on keeping history of elevated levels or cardiac disease for future reference
- Educate patient on duration of elevated troponin levels, post injury
- Troponin I
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) Lab Values
Objective: Determine the significance and clinical use of Thyroid Stimulating Hormone in clinical practice Lab Test Name: Thyroid Stimulating Hormone Description: Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) is released …
Notes de l’épisode
Objective:Determine the significance and clinical use of Thyroid Stimulating Hormone in clinical practice
Lab Test Name:Thyroid Stimulating Hormone
Description:Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) is released from the anterior pituitary in response to low levels of thyroid hormone.
TSH stimulates the thyroid gland to release thyroid hormones
- Triiodothyronine (T3)
- Thyroxine (T4)
- T3 and T4 have an inverse relationship with TSH
Aids to diagnose:
- Hyperthyroidism
- Hypothyroidism
- Anterior pituitary function
Monitor:
- Thyroid replacement therapy
Normal –
2-10 mU/L
Collection:
- Plasma separator tube
TSH levels increase in the following conditions:
- Hypothyroidism
- Thyroidectomy
- Thyroid dysfunction
- Thyroiditis
- Thyroid Agenesis
- Large doses of iodine
- Pituitary TSH-secreting tumor
Recall the inverse relationship between TSH and T3/T4 labs, and how the negative feedback loop works with these hormones.
TSH levels decrease in the following conditions:
- Anterior pituitary hypofunction- If the pituitary isn't secreting TSH, the level will be low.
- Hyperthyroidism- If there is a large amount of thyroid hormone circulating, the feedback system relays the info upstream and less TSH is released.
Red Blood Cell (RBC) Lab Values
Overview Red blood cells Normal Value Range Patho Special considerations Too High: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments Too Low: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments Nursing Points General Normal range Measured in millions …
Notes de l’épisode
Overview- Red blood cells
- Normal Value Range
- Patho
- Special considerations
- Too High: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments
- Too Low: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments
- Normal range
- Measured in millions
- Normal values
- Males 4.5-5.5 x106/mcL
- Females 4-4.9×106/mcL
- Pathophysiology
- Red Blood Cell generation
- Formed in bone marrow
- Stimulated by kidneys by erythropoietin
- Function
- AKA Erythrocytes
- Reticulocytes
- Young RBC
- Indicate regeneration
- Reticulocytes
- Carries oxygen
- Via Hemoglobin
- Allows for transfer of CO2
- Bioconcave shape
- Increases surface area
- Allows for ability to "squeeze" into capillaries
- 2.4 M made every 1 second
- AKA Erythrocytes
- Red Blood Cell generation
- Special considerations
- Submitted via LAVENDER top tube (EDTA)
- Technique can destroy red blood cells
- Allow vacuum in vacutainers to draw blood, never force blood into tubes
- Consider angiocath/IV size when drawing blood
- Elevated RBC results
- Dehydration
- Result of decreased plasma
- Polycythemia
- Bone marrow cancer, causes increase in RBC
- COPD
- Pulmonary fibrosis
- Dehydration
- Decreased RBC results
- Anemia
- Sickle-cell
- ↓ EPO due to kidney disease
- Hemorrhage
- Bone marrow failure
- Pregnancy
- Anemia
- Assess for signs of anemia
- Tachycardia
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Decreased SaO2
- Pallor
- Blood transfusions as necessary
- Treat primary cause of anemia
Nursing Concepts
- Lab Values
- Oxygenation
- Red blood cells
Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) Lab Values
Objective: Determine the significance and clinical use of Prostate Specific Antigen in clinical practice Lab Test Name: Prostate Specific Antigen – PSA Description: Measurement of PSA in the bloodstream Used to …
Notes de l’épisode
Objective:Determine the significance and clinical use of Prostate Specific Antigen in clinical practice
Lab Test Name:Prostate Specific Antigen – PSA
Description:Measurement of PSA in the bloodstream
Used to diagnose and assess prostate health, size and function.
Indications:Evaluate:
- Enlarged prostate when prostate cancer is suspected
- Stage cancer
- Effectiveness of treatments
Normal –
- Male:
- Female:
Collection:
- Serum Separator Tube
Increased:
- Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy (BPH)
- Prostate cancer
- Prostatitis
- Urinary retention
Decreased:
- Long-term use of NSAIDs- explained in part by the anti-inflammatory effect of these medications
- Thiazides- reduces bioavailable testosterone, associated with resulting in functional hypogonadism
- Statins- cholesterol plays a role in synthesis of androgen, which affects the size of the prostate
- 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors- due to the effect on prostate size.
Platelets (PLT) Lab Values
Overview Platelets Normal Value Range Pathophysiology Special considerations Elevated platelet levels Decreased platelet levels Nursing Points General Normal value ranges 100,000 – 450,000/mcL Also known as …
Notes de l’épisode
Overview- Platelets
- Normal Value Range
- Pathophysiology
- Special considerations
- Elevated platelet levels
- Decreased platelet levels
- Normal value ranges
- 100,000 – 450,000/mcL
- Also known as – Thrombocytes
- Pathophysiology
- Formed from Megakaryocyte
- Formed from bone marrow
- Produces 1000-3000 platelets
- Injury occurs at site
- Collagen releases activators
- Thrombocytes activate "sticky fingers", which allow them to bind together.
- Travel to site (along with other clotting factors)
- Adhere to site, increase stimulation for other PLT, until clot is formed with fibrin
- Formed from Megakaryocyte
- Special considerations
- Use a lavender top tube (EDTA)
- Often sent in CBC
- Abnormal lab values
- Elevated platelets (thrombocytosis)
- Cancers
- Absence of a spleen
- Breaks down platelets
- Birth control
- Polycythemia vera
- Overproduction of cells
- Treatment via bloodletting, medications or hydration
- Decreased platelets (thrombocytopenia)
- ITP (Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura)
- Autoimmune disease
- Medications
- Hemorrhage
- Treated with transfusion
- Leukemia
- Treated with chemotherapy/radiation
- Medications
- Some diuretics
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Ranitidine
- Some antibiotics
- ITP (Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura)
- Elevated platelets (thrombocytosis)
- Assess for signs of petechia (small purplish blemishes, indicating bleeding)
- Control and stop hemorrhage
- Replace platelets via transfusion
- Consider stopping or changing medications that cause thrombocytopenia
- Lab Values
- Clotting
- For patients who have bleeding disorders, instruct patients to be cautious of injury.
- If patient has thrombocytopenia, instruct patient to seek emergency treatment in the event of bleeding that does not stop.
**DISCLAIMER – The video states that the normal value of platelets is 100,000 – 400,000 cells/mcL. The correct information is 100,000 – 450,000 cells/mcL.
- Platelets
Lipase Lab Values
Objective: Determine the significance and clinical use of Lipase in clinical practice Lab Test Name: Lipase Description: Lipase Measurement of lipase in the blood Used to diagnose pancreatitis and pancreatic …
Notes de l’épisode
Objective:Determine the significance and clinical use of Lipase in clinical practice
Lab Test Name:Lipase
Description:Lipase
Measurement of lipase in the blood
- Used to diagnose pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer
- An enzyme produced by the pancreas
- Aids in breakdown of fats
- Released into the bloodstream as a result of damage to the pancreas
Diagnose:
- Pancreatitis
- Severe upper abdominal pain
- Abdominal pain – radiates
- Fever
- N/V
- Tachycardia
- Pancreatic cancer
- Discoloration of urine and stool
- Weight loss
- Diabetes
Normal:
- 23-300 U/L
Collection:
- Plasma separator tube
- Serum separator tube
- Pancreatitis
- Pancreatic cyst
- Pseudocyst
- Pancreatic duct obstruction
- Renal failure
- Cholecystitis
- Peptic ulcer disease
N/A
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