Introduction[edit | edit source] Show
Laboratory testing involves the checking of blood, urine, and body tissue samples in order to see if the resulting lab values fall within the normal range. Lab values are used to determine a patient’s overall health and well-being. There are many factors that can affect a patient’s result and lab values but some of the most common factors are gender, age, race, the medicines taken, and the presence of any underlying condition(s).[1] The video below gives a good introduction to lab values and normal ranges. [2] Care Plan[edit | edit source]The fundamental consideration when reviewing patient laboratory findings is toward determining an appropriate plan of care and weighing the anticipated benefit of a therapy intervention against the potential of the patient. Physical therapists should:
When commencing or continuing care of patients in the acute care setting, always use sound clinical decision making[3]. The Lab values alone may or may not determine whether you’re going to intervene with a patient, or whether you’re going to hold[4]. Be aware[edit | edit source]Things to consider when looking at the patient’s condition
Complete Blood Count[edit | edit source]Complete blood count is one of the most basic laboratory examinations to assess the overall health status of a patient. It can help diagnose infections, autoimmune disorders, anemia, and other blood diseases.[5][6]
Electrolytes[edit | edit source]Electrolytes are minerals that are involved in some of the important functions in our body. Serum electrolytes are routinely ordered for a patient admitted to a hospital as a screening test for electrolyte and acid-base imbalances.[7]
Coagulation[edit | edit source]Clotting is what prevents excessive bleeding, the blood moving through your vessels shouldn’t clot. If such clots form, they can travel through the bloodstream to the heart, lungs, or brain. This can cause a heart attack, stroke, or even death. Coagulation tests measure the blood’s ability to clot, and how long it takes to clot. Testing can help assess the risk of excessive bleeding or developing clots (thrombosis) somewhere in your blood vessels. Coagulation tests are useful in monitoring people who take medications that affect clotting ability. Coagulation tests are also sometimes recommended before surgery. Conditions that can cause coagulation problems include:
There are many types of coagulation tests. Some of the more common are listed below.[9]
The above outline was created to assist the clinician with lab value considerations for the general population.
General Chemistry[edit | edit source]Blood chemistry set is used to measure the amount of substances in the body. Glucose measures blood sugar and determines if the patient is within the criterion for diabetes. Uric acid is often an indication of kidney stones and a high BUN and creatinine suggest impairment in our kidney. In general, the basic chemistry helps us assess many conditions and give light to how the body’s organs are working[1]. Normal Range:
Immunoglobulins[edit | edit source]Immunoglobulins or antibodies are molecules produced by white blood cells. They function as the primary part of the immune response by determining and binding to antigens, such as viruses and bacteria.[1] eg: Globulins, total: 2.5-3.5 g/dL
Iron studies
Urinalysis[edit | edit source]Urine is another commonly used fluid for lab testing. It’s the most suitable sample for evaluating kidney functions.
Hemodynamic Parameters[edit | edit source]Hemodynamic monitoring focuses on the measurement of blood pressure in veins, heart, and arteries. This test is conducted to determine a patient’s heart health through the flow of blood and the amount of oxygen present in the blood[1].eg: Normal Range:
References[edit | edit source]
What bedside monitoring parameters are used?These patient and bedside monitoring systems provide and record a patient's vital signs (body temperature, blood pressure, pulse rate, and respiratory rate) or measurements of the activity of various body organs.
Which of the following is a possible complication of positive pressure ventilation Tncc?May cause hemorrhage, infarction, necrosis and edema.
Which of the following occurs during the third impact of a motor vehicle crash?Lastly, the third insult or impact to the body occurs when the internal structures such as organs and tissues collide with the body cavities. For example, the aorta may tear as it propels into the thoracic cavity or ribs may puncture a lung or spleen.
Which of the following mnemonics can help the nurse prioritize care for a trauma patient with massive uncontrolled hemorrhage a ABC?MARCH (The MARCH mnemonic stands for massive hemorrhage, airway, respiration, circulation, and head injury/hypothermia. The MARCH mnemonic recognizes uncontrolled hemorrhage as the major cause of preventable death after injury.)
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