Lab Values and Diagnostic Imaging Study Notes

Lab Values and Diagnostic Imaging

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

  • Red Blood Cells (RBC): Carry oxygen.

  • White Blood Cells (WBC): Fight infection.

  • Hemoglobin (Hgb): Oxygen and iron transport in RBCs.

  • Hematocrit (Hct): Proportion of red blood cells to plasma.

  • Platelets: Assist in blood clotting.

CBC Normal Ranges

  • RBC: Male 4.7-6.1, Female 4.2-5.4

  • WBC: 5,000 – 10,000 /MM

  • Hgb: Male 14-18 g/dL, Female 12-16 g/dL

  • Hct: Male 42%-52%, Female 37%-47%

  • Platelets: 150,000-450,000

Elevated/Decreased Values

  • Hgb: Elevated in high altitudes, COPD; decreased in anemia.

  • Hct: Elevated in dehydration; decreased in blood loss.

  • WBC count: Increased in infection; decreased in hematopoietic diseases.

  • Platelets: Increased in thrombocytosis; decreased in thrombocytopenia.

Metabolic Panel

Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP)

  • Electrolytes:

    • Sodium: 135-145 mEq/L

    • Potassium: 3.5-5.0 mEq/L

    • Calcium: 8.6-10.2 mg/dL

    • Chloride: 97-107 mEq/L

  • Glucose: 70-100 mg/dL

  • CO2: 20-29 mEq/L

  • BUN: 10-20 mg/dL

  • Creatinine: 0.5-1.2 mg/dL

Complete Metabolic Panel (CMP)

  • Enzymes: ALP, AST, ALT.

  • Bilirubin: 0.1-1 mg/dL

  • Total Protein: 6-8 g/dL

  • Albumin: 3.4-5.4 g/dL

Blood Clotting Studies

  • Prothrombin Time (PT): Monitor anticoagulant therapy (10-13s control).

  • International Normalized Ratio (INR): Adults ≤ 1.1 (2-3 for therapy).

  • Partial Thromboplastin Time (PTT): Normal 25-35s, therapeutic 1.5-2.5 times control.

Diagnostic Imaging Techniques

  • X-rays: Imaging for bones/organs; precautions for pregnancy.

  • Mammography: Breast x-ray; minimal radiation; check for discomfort.

  • Ultrasonography (US): Uses sound waves; non-invasive.

  • Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: Uses x-rays; some contraindications (iodine allergy).

  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Utilizes magnetic field; no radiation; contraindicated with metal implants.

Nursing Responsibilities

  • Review provider orders for diagnostics.

  • Educate clients on procedures.

  • Gather supplies and ensure IV access.

  • Monitor patient and follow up on results.