4 Glucose and Endocrine Laboratory Values Free Online FlashCards

How should a laboratory result be interpreted?

Interpret results using the laboratory’s reference interval and clinical context. An out-of-range result alone is not a diagnosis, and an in-range result does not rule out illness.

How is a fasting plasma glucose of 100–125 mg/dL categorized?

A fasting plasma glucose of 100–125 mg/dL is in the prediabetes range. By itself, a single result in this range is not diagnostic of diabetes.

What does A1C estimate, and what can make it misleading?

A1C estimates average glucose over roughly 2–3 months. Conditions that affect red blood cells can make the result misleading.

What 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test value is in the diabetes range?

A 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test result of 200 mg/dL or higher is in the diabetes range for nonpregnant adults.

When can a random plasma glucose support a diabetes diagnosis?

A random plasma glucose of 200 mg/dL or higher with classic symptoms can support a diabetes diagnosis. Symptoms include increased thirst or urination and unexplained weight loss.

What glucose values mark an alert and clinically significant hypoglycemia?

Below 70 mg/dL is an alert value; below 54 mg/dL is clinically significant hypoglycemia.

How is an awake patient who can swallow safely commonly treated for hypoglycemia?

Follow facility protocol; a common approach is 15 g of fast-acting carbohydrate, then recheck glucose in 15 minutes and repeat if it remains below 70 mg/dL.

What is the priority response when a hypoglycemic patient cannot swallow safely?

Give nothing by mouth. Activate emergency assistance and administer glucagon or IV dextrose as authorized by protocol or order; reassess glucose, airway, and mental status.

How is severe hypoglycemia defined?

Severe hypoglycemia is defined by needing another person’s help, regardless of the measured glucose.

Can glucose below 200 mg/dL rule out DKA?

No. DKA can occur with glucose as low as 200 mg/dL, especially with SGLT2-inhibitor use or pregnancy; assess symptoms and escalate concerns urgently.

Which findings require urgent escalation for possible DKA or HHS?

Vomiting, abdominal pain, deep or labored breathing, marked dehydration, positive ketones, worsening weakness, or altered mental status require urgent escalation, even if glucose is not extremely high.

What does high TSH with low free T4 commonly suggest?

High TSH with low free T4 commonly indicates primary hypothyroidism. Interpret both tests alongside symptoms, medications, and the laboratory’s ranges.