6 Integrated Laboratory Interpretation Practice Free Online FlashCards

How should laboratory results be interpreted?

Interpret results alongside symptoms, vital signs, urine output, mental status, and prior values—not in isolation.

Why check the reporting laboratory’s reference range?

Reference intervals vary by laboratory, age, and other patient factors; use the reporting laboratory’s range.

What is the approximate adult potassium range, and why does it matter?

Potassium is commonly about $3.5\text{–}5.0\ \mathrm{mmol/L}$ in adults and is important for cardiac conduction and muscle function.

What is the priority for high potassium with new ECG changes?

Hyperkalemia with ECG changes can have dangerous cardiac effects. Escalate immediately, initiate cardiac monitoring, and obtain urgent evaluation under facility protocol.

How should possible potassium-result hemolysis affect urgent care?

Hemolysis can falsely elevate potassium, so repeat testing may be appropriate; however, do not let verification delay action when ECG changes or instability are present.

What is the approximate adult fasting glucose range?

The common approximate adult fasting glucose range is $70\text{–}99\ \mathrm{mg/dL}$.

What is the response to low glucose with altered mental status and unsafe swallowing?

Protect the patient from injury, call for help, and administer glucagon or IV dextrose as authorized by protocol or order; then recheck glucose and reassess.

When is oral carbohydrate appropriate for hypoglycemia?

The 15-gram oral-carbohydrate approach applies only when the person is awake and able to swallow safely.

How should creatinine be interpreted?

Creatinine is commonly about $0.6\text{–}1.3\ \mathrm{mg/dL}$, but interpret it with the patient’s baseline, eGFR, and urine output.

What can a white blood cell count show—and what can it not rule out?

A common adult range is $4\text{–}11\times10^9/\mathrm{L}$. White blood cells may rise with infection or other stress, but a normal count does not exclude serious illness.

What is the approximate adult platelet range, and why do low counts matter?

The common approximate adult platelet range is $150\text{–}400\times10^9/\mathrm{L}$; low counts can increase bleeding risk.

What are the approximate adult hemoglobin ranges by sex?

Approximate ranges are $12\text{–}16\ \mathrm{g/dL}$ for adult women and $13.5\text{–}17.5\ \mathrm{g/dL}$ for adult men; trends and symptoms matter.