the correct Normal Values

suzanne4, RN · Feb 13, 2009

I have studied a lot of books and experience a lot of different normal values in every book. I don't know which is the right one. Does anyone knows which book would be a good and reliable reference for me to follow? Thanks a lot!

There is no one set of absolutes, you will see that even with each hospital that you are at. Do not focus on the normals but what you would do when something is truly abnormal; too high or too low. You will see extremes on the exam, not just a change by a minimal amount. Such as a potassium of 2.6 or 5.8. What are you going to do and what would be your priorities in seeing this patient?

USRN2Be · Feb 13, 2009

Thanks Suzanne! :redpinkhe

caliotter3 · Feb 14, 2009

Good luck as you prepare for the exam.

cleeguy · Feb 14, 2009

thanks for the info. was worried about lab values myself.

jsome · Feb 14, 2009

I agree with Suzanne. I just found out I failed my exam. My test mainly asked the nursing interventions for the abnormal lab value. When to hydrate, when to give lasix, what med to give, when to call the physician. So, study the hypo and hyper situations.

JeepDudeRN · Feb 15, 2009

I just took the nclex and passed. Suzanne is right. Dont concentrate on the actual numbers. Know the general ranges and what to do if your patient is experiencing a decrease or increase. Say the patients sodium value is increased. What are you going to look for, what will your patient present with, what will you do? Thats what you need to know.