Review of Lab Values and Electrolytes

Flashcards based on lecture notes about laboratory results and electrolytes.

What is the primary purpose of diagnostic tests, according to the source material?

To confirm or eliminate the presence of disease.

What action is the nurse's responsibility after a laboratory sample is collected?

Interpret and follow up on the results.

According to the source, what factor may cause variation in normal laboratory value ranges?

The specific textbook or hospital source used.

When is a laboratory value considered ABNORMAL?

When the value is either high or low and outside the normal range.

How are laboratory values marked as CRITICAL defined?

Values that are well outside the usual range of normal and considered life-threatening.

What is the FIRST responsibility of the nurse when a client has a critical laboratory value?

Assess the client immediately for any complications.

What is a key characteristic of electrolytes?

They are substances that acquire the ability to conduct electricity.

What is a potential cause of electrolyte imbalances?

Medications such as diuretics.

Why are electrolyte imbalances considered a medical emergency?

Because they can lead to cardiac and/or neurological complications.

Which of the following is an electrolyte: Hemoglobin, Bilirubin, Sodium, or Albumin?

Sodium

How should a nurse interpret a serum sodium level of 118 mEq/L?

This is a critical critically low value.

What is a sign/symptom associated with Hyponatremia?

Seizures.

What intervention might the nurse anticipate for client diagnosed with Hyponatremia due to excessive sweating without proper sodium replacement?

Implementing seizure precautions.

What intervention is appropriate for hypernatremia?

Restricting sodium intake.

What is a dietary source of sodium?

Canned food items.

How is a potassium level of 6.5 mEq/L classified?

Critical critically high.

What is a major role of potassium in the body?

Important for cardiac, skeletal, and smooth muscle function.

What signs/symptoms is listed as potentially occurring with Hypokalemia?

Shallow, ineffective respirations.

What intervention should the nurse prioritize for a client has a potassium level of 2.8 mEq/L?

Implementing cardiac monitoring.

What is a cause of Hyperkalemia?

Kidney failure.

What symptom is associated with Hyperkalemia?

Diarrhea.

What food item is a good source of potassium?

Bananas.

What is the normal range for Calcium?

9-10.5 mg/dL.

Calcium absorption from the intestines requires the presence of:

Vitamin D in an active form.

What is a potential indicator of Hypocalcemia?

Positive Trousseau sign.