Laboratory Tests

These flashcards cover key concepts and information related to laboratory tests, including the BMP, Comprehensive Metabolic Panel, PT/INR, Troponin, BNP, and platelet function assays.

What is BMP used for?

Ordered In:

1. Emergency situations

2. kidney and metabolism issues

3. Symptoms like fatigue

4. To monitor chronic conditions

5. To check abnormal prior test results

What are common components of a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel?

Includes albumin total:

1. protein

2. sodium

3. potassium

4. CO2

5. chloride

6. BUN

7. creatinine

8. alkaline phosphatase

9. ALT

10. AST

11. bilirubin.

What does an elevated creatinine level indicate?

It is a good indicator of kidney function and reflects waste product production in muscle.

What does a high PT/INR reading signify?

It means the blood is clotting too slowly.

What is the normal range for PT results?

11 to 13.5 seconds.

What does the troponin test measure?

It measures elevated levels of troponins, which indicate heart muscle damage.

What is BNP and its role in diagnosing?

A peptide used to diagnose heart failure and helps regulate fluid and salt levels.

What does the rapid platelet function assay (RPFA) measure?

It measures platelet activity by how well platelets agglutinate coated beads.

What are the conditions that might necessitate platelet function tests?

During bleeding, specific medications, or certain surgeries.

What does arterial blood gas (ABG) testing interpret?

It interprets cardiac, respiratory, and metabolic symptoms.

What is the significance of SAO2 levels?

It measures the oxygen bound to hemoglobin in the blood.

What is the normal range for SAO2?

Between 95-100%.

What could low SAO2 levels indicate?

They can be low due to respiratory issues such as COPD.

What does alkaline phosphatase (ALP) elevate indicate?

Elevated levels may indicate liver or bone disease.

What does bilirubin in the blood indicate?

It is a waste product made in the liver from the breakdown of red blood cells.

What does a comprehensive metabolic panel monitor?

kidney function, electrolyte balance, and liver health.

What is the function of albumin in a metabolic panel?

A small protein produced in the liver, measured to assess liver function.

What role does sodium play in the body?

It’s an electrolyte vital for many bodily processes.

What causes troponins to leak into the bloodstream?

Damaged heart muscle

Why is it important to monitor blood urea nitrogen (BUN)?

Since it is a waste product filtered by the kidneys, indicating kidney function.

What would a clinician look for in a BNP test result?

High BNP levels since it help isolate the cause of cardiac or respiratory symptoms.