Interpreting Lab Results

RNIAM, BSN, RN · Mar 15, 2003

I would memorize the important ones. The ones you see all the time. Then look up the others. I bet over time you'll get better at remembering.

jnette, ASN, EMT-I · Mar 15, 2003

Originally posted by rhona1
I would memorize the important ones. The ones you see all the time. Then look up the others. I bet over time you'll get better at remembering.

Agree !

Takes time and practice. Before you know it, you'll know them like the back of your hand. In the meantime, though, it makes one feel pretty darn stoooooooooopid, right? :rolleyes:

This, too, shall pass.

Sarah, RNBScN · Mar 15, 2003

get a good lab book

lab analysis for dummies...I think they have one. Check indigo.ca or amazon.ca

ICUNeuroNerd · Mar 15, 2003

As with many things, you will start learning to your specialty. You will learn by repetition when the doctor treats and when they don't and unfortunately when they give you a look for not being notified of a value. Until then, use your resources...the nurses around you probably know the right answer and if you ask them before you call a doctor you will learn their opinion, and feed on their experience. If they can tolerate new grads (I know there are some RNs that arent too welcoming) ask them why that is the right answer? Just like the 3-year-old with all the why questions, you are in a learning mode. You are a sponge.

One more thing with the lab values....what was it last time? That can save you too...establish if the patient is stable or dropping or are they improving but still out of range.

baseline · Mar 15, 2003

I agree with all the above posts, and would add you may want to start with your basic Chem 6 (lytes, bun,cr,glu) and then move on from there. Cbc also. Most of it you are bound to catch on to as you work along.