Normal and Abnormal Lab Values

Flashcards summarizing normal and abnormal laboratory values, their normal ranges, and rationales for abnormal findings.

Creatinine

Normal range is 0.7-1.4 mg/dL; increased levels indicate variable renal function.

BUN

Normal range is 10-20 mg/dL; increased levels depend on protein intake and renal function.

Sodium

Normal range is 135-145 mEq/L; levels can be normal or decreased depending on fluid status.

Potassium

Normal range is 3.5-5.0 mEq/L; increased levels indicate decreased renal function.

Phosphorus

Normal range is 2.5-4.5 mg/dL; increased levels indicate decreased renal function.

Calcium

Normal range is 8.6-10.2 mg/dL; decreased levels are due to decreased hormone production for Vitamin D.

Magnesium

Normal range is 1.3-2.3 mg/dL; increased levels indicate decreased renal function.

Bicarbonate

Normal range is 22-26 mEq/L; decreased levels indicate loss of compensation for acid retention.

Hemoglobin

Normal range is 12.0-18.0 g/dL; decreased levels indicate decreased production of erythropoietin.

Hematocrit

Normal range is 35-52%; decreased levels correlate with decreased erythropoietin production.

Glucose in Urinalysis

Normal levels are 0 or <15 mg/dL; increased levels occur with elevated blood glucose values.

Protein in Urinalysis

Normal levels are <150 mg/dL; increased levels indicate glomerular damage or disease.

Specific gravity in Urinalysis

Normal range is 1.010-1.025; decreased values indicate renal tubular damage.

Creatinine clearance

Normal ranges are 75-133 ml/min for males and 69-122 ml/min for females; decreased values indicate decreased glomerular filtration rate.