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NCLEX-RN Critical Lab Values & Diagnostics Flashcards

Master 25 critical lab values & diagnostics concepts for the NCLEX-RN.

Question

Complete the statement regarding white blood cell (WBC) safety parameters.


An Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC) <1,000/mm³ indicates severe and requires precautions.

Question

What is the typical hemoglobin threshold for blood transfusion in hemodynamically stable clients?


Question

At what platelet count are bleeding precautions initiated?


Question

A client has a potassium level of 6.4 mEq/L. Which assessment is the priority?


Question

Severe sodium imbalances (<120 or >160 mEq/L) primarily cause life-threatening symptoms in which body system?


Question

Which laboratory value is the most specific indicator of renal function?


Question

Complete the statement regarding glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c).


HbA1c measures glucose control over . The recommended goal for clients with diabetes is .

Question

Which lab findings are consistent with a diagnosis of primary hypothyroidism?


Question

A client with hepatic encephalopathy has an ammonia level of 85 mcg/dL. Which medication is the standard treatment?


Question

Low serum albumin (<3.5 g/dL) results in which fluid shift mechanism?


Question

A patient has a critical Potassium (K⁺) level >6.5 mEq/L. Identify the three categories of priority interventions required.


Question

A patient has a critical Potassium (K⁺) level of 2.4 mEq/L. Which administration method for potassium replacement is FATAL and strictly contraindicated?


Question

Select the correct precautions and risks for severe Hyponatremia (<120 mEq/L).


Implement precautions. Avoid rapid correction to prevent .

Question

A patient is found unconscious with a blood glucose of 45 mg/dL. They have IV access. What is the priority intervention?


Question

When treating severe hyperglycemia (>400 mg/dL) with an IV insulin infusion, which electrolyte requires the most critical monitoring to prevent cardiac dysrhythmias?


Question

A patient's lab results show elevated Troponin I. What is the priority diagnostic action the nurse must facilitate immediately?


Question

According to general critical care guidelines, below what Hemoglobin (Hgb) level is a blood transfusion typically indicated for a hemodynamically stable patient?


Question

A patient has a critical platelet count of 18,000/mm³. Which nursing intervention is CONTRAINDICATED?


Question

Manage the critical INR (>4.0).


Hold the. The antidote is. If bleeding, give.

Question

What is the primary clinical utility of a NEGATIVE D-dimer result in a patient with chest pain or leg swelling?


Question

Differentiate between inflammatory markers.


rises and falls rapidly (acute). rises slowly (chronic). Both are markers.

Question

An elevated Procalcitonin (>0.5 ng/mL) is a specific marker for what type of infection?


Question

What does a serum lactate level > 2-4 mmol/L indicate about cellular physiology?


Question

Interpret the critical ABG intervention thresholds.


pH <7.20 requires immediate intervention. PaCO2 >50 with acidosis often requires support.

Question

A patient presents with severe epigastric pain. Which lab value is the most SPECIFIC diagnostic marker for acute pancreatitis?