Laboratory Tests and Values

Laboratory Tests

Assessments used to aid in clinical decision-making and monitor patient health.

Screening for Diseases

The process of identifying hidden diseases in patients.

Risk Stratification

Evaluating patients to determine their risk for developing diseases and guiding preventative therapy.

Monitoring Patient Conditions

Tracking the progression of diseases and adjusting treatment plans accordingly.

Predictive Scoring

Tools used in ICUs to measure disease severity and predict patient outcomes.

Safety Assessment for Physical Therapy

Evaluating lab results to ensure patient safety during physical therapy.

Reference Ranges

Standard values for lab tests that can vary based on sex, gender identity, and race.

Lab Value Identifiers

Notations such as "L" for low and "H" for high lab results.

False Negatives/Positives

Incorrect lab results that can lead to misdiagnosis, highlighting the need for continuous monitoring.

Communication Gaps

The necessity for collaboration among healthcare professionals to interpret lab results effectively.

Individual Tolerances

Variability in how different individuals respond to lab results based on their homeostasis.

Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP)

A set of 7-8 tests that evaluate electrolytes, glucose, and kidney function.

Routine Testing

Common lab tests performed for conditions like diabetes and kidney disease.

Sodium Levels

The significance of hyponatremia (low sodium) and hypernatremia (high sodium) in patient health.

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)

An expanded panel that includes BMP and liver function tests.

Hepatic Function Panel

A set of tests, including MELD scoring, used to assess liver disease prognosis.

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

A test that measures red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

Clinical Relevance of CBC

Used to assess anemia, infection response, and clotting ability.

Altered Blood Counts

Conditions like pancytopenia that indicate various health issues.

Key Measurements

Important lab values such as hematocrit, hemoglobin, iron, vitamin B12, and folic acid.

Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)

A test that serves as an indicator of inflammation in the body.

Cardiovascular Lab Tests

Tests that help diagnose conditions like congestive heart failure.

ANP and BNP Levels

Biomarkers used to indicate heart failure severity.

Creatine Kinase (CK)

An enzyme whose levels are relevant for diagnosing muscle and heart conditions.

Troponin

A critical marker for diagnosing myocardial injury.

Immunologic Tests

Assessments of immunoglobulins and antibodies, important in diagnosing autoimmune diseases.