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Questions and Answers
What is the main purpose of lab tests in healthcare?
How are normal ranges for lab results typically established?
Which of the following indicates that immediate medical action is required?
What might lower levels of albumin in a lab test indicate?
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Why is it important to interpret lab results based on context?
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Which of the following factors could interfere with albumin test results?
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What is one of the primary uses of albumin testing?
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In a clinical setting, what may follow lab tests according to post-test considerations?
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What role does albumin play in the body?
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Which condition is NOT indicated by low levels of albumin?
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Study Notes
Laboratory Tests
- Laboratory tests assist healthcare providers in evaluating client health and making informed decisions.
- Tests can be ordered for screening, evaluation of drug effectiveness, diagnosis confirmation, or ruling out clinical issues.
- Lab results influence clinical decision-making and client care plans.
- Comprehending laboratory terminology is essential for safe and efficient care.
Normal Ranges vs. Reference Ranges
- Normal ranges are determined by analyzing results from a large group of healthy individuals.
- Ranges can vary depending on factors like age and gender.
- For example, males have a higher hemoglobin level than females.
Critical Values
- Critical values represent dangerously abnormal results requiring immediate action to prevent life-threatening situations.
Post-Test Considerations
- Post-test assessments may be necessary depending on the results obtained.
Chemistry Tests
- Chemistry tests measure chemical components in bodily fluids and tissues to identify abnormalities.
- Blood and urine are commonly used specimens.
Albumin (AL)
- Normal range: 35–50 g/L
- Used to diagnose or monitor liver diseases, nutritional deficiencies, chronic edema, and cancer.
- Albumin is a liver-produced protein component of total serum protein, along with pre-albumin and globulins.
- It maintains colloidal osmotic pressure.
- Blood sample: Red tube. Urine sample: 24-hour urine collection.
- Purpose: Assess liver and kidney function, protein intake adequacy, and determine edema causes in extremities and abdomen.
- Interfering factors: Medications like aspirin, bicarbonates, corticosteroids, and salicylates can disrupt normal serum electrophoresis patterns.
- Results and significance:
- Lower levels: Indicate malnutrition, liver disease, ascites, inflammatory disease, autoimmune disorder, GI malabsorption syndromes, and pregnancy.
- Higher levels: Indicate severe dehydration.
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Description
This quiz covers the essential aspects of laboratory tests in healthcare, detailing their role in client evaluation and decision-making. It includes discussions on normal versus reference ranges, critical values, and post-test considerations. Understanding laboratory terminology is emphasized for effective client care.
