Lab Values: Interpreting Chemistry and Hematology for Adult Patients

2 Contact Hours

Copyright 2011 by RN.com All Rights Reserved Reproduction and distribution of these materials is prohibited without the express written authorization of RN.com

First Published: March 30, 2012 Course Expires: March 30, 2015

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Acknowledgments
RN.com acknowledges the valuable contributions of
Kim Maryniak, RNC-NIC, BN, MSN has over 22 years staff nurse and charge nurse experience with med/surg, psychiatry, pediatrics, including 13 years in neonatal intensive care. She has been an educator, instructor, and nursing director. Her instructor experience includes maternal/child and med/surg nursing, physical assessment, and research utilization. Kim graduated with a nursing diploma from Foothills Hospital School of Nursing in Calgary, Alberta in 1989. She achieved her Bachelor in Nursing through Athabasca University, Alberta in 2000, and her Master of Science in Nursing through University of Phoenix in 2005. Kim is certified in Neonatal Intensive Care Nursing and is currently pursuing her PhD in Nursing. She is active in the National Association of Neonatal Nurses and American Nurses Association. Kims recent roles in professional development and management include neonatal and pediatric care, nursing peer review and advancement, teaching, and use of simulation.

Disclaimer
RN.com strives to keep its content fair and unbiased. The author(s), planning committee, and reviewers have no conflicts of interest in relation to this course. There is no commercial support being used for this course. Participants are advised that the accredited status of RN.com does not imply endorsement by the provider or ANCC of any commercial products mentioned in this course. There is "off label" usage of medications discussed in this course. You may find that both generic and trade names are used in courses produced by RN.com. The use of trade names does not indicate any preference of one trade named agent or company over another. Trade names are provided to enhance recognition of agents described in the course. Note: All dosages given are for adults unless otherwise stated. The information on medications contained in this course is not meant to be prescriptive or all-encompassing. You are encouraged to consult with physicians and pharmacists about all medication issues for your patients.

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Purpose
The purpose of this continuing education module is to provide nurses with the knowledge and skills to recognize changes in common chemistry and complete blood count lab values. Additionally, after completing this module, you will be able to discuss reasons why these common lab values may be either elevated or decreased.

Learning Objectives
After successful completion of this course, you will be able to: Identify normal chemistry values for the adult patient Define the normal range of laboratory values for components of a complete blood count for the adult patient Explain at least two causes and complications of abnormal chemistry values and complete blood count Identify at least one treatment associated with abnormal findings

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Introduction
Using laboratory values can be a key piece of assessment to determine what is occurring within the body of a patient. There are numerous laboratory tests that can be done. The most common tests include chemistry panels, hematology (such as the complete blood count), and blood gases. This course will take a closer look at these components. Lab values for this course are taken from the Rush Medical Laboratory (Rush University Medical Center, 2012). Remember that there is some variation in ranges based on the laboratory, so be aware of the normal ranges for your facility.

Introduction to Electrolytes
Electrolytes The human body is constantly trying to keep a balance of homeostasis with fluid and electrolytes. Electrolytes are chemical compounds that break down into ions, carrying a positive or negative charge. When these are not in balance, pathological changes occur in the human body (LeFever, Paulanka, & Polek, 2010). Sodium (Na+) Sodium (Na+) is the major component of extracellular fluid (ECF). The normal values are 137-147 mmol/L Na+ takes part in the regulation of acid-base balance, tissue osmolality and enzyme activity. Na+ is also essential for the retention of body water by maintaining osmotic pressure (LeFever, Paulanka, & Polek, 2010). Potassium (K+) Potassium (K+) is the major component of intracellular fluid (ICF). The normal value range is 3.4-5.3 mmol/L. K+ participates in enzyme activity, regulation of tissue osmolality and glycogen use. K+ is also essential for cardiac function and central nervous system function by regulating muscle and nerve excitability (LeFever, Paulanka, & Polek, 2010). Chloride (Cl-) Chloride (Cl-) is another component of ECF, with normal values between 99-108 mmol/L. Cl- participates in tissue and cell osmolality, and passively follows sodium and water. Clis necessary for K+ retention, transport of carbon dioxide (CO2), and formation of hydrochloric acid (HCL) in the gastrointestinal tract. Cl- is usually provided in the form of NaCl or KCl (LeFever, Paulanka, & Polek, 2010).

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Magnesium (Mg2+) Magnesium (Mg2+) is found in the bone (50%), the ICF (45%), and the ECF (5%). The normal range is 1.6-2.7 mg/dL. Mg2+ affects enzyme activity, cardiac and neuromuscular function. Deficits with Mg2+ are usually seen with deficits in Ca2+ and/or K+ (LeFever, Paulanka, & Polek, 2010). Calcium (Ca2+) Calcium (Ca2+) is another component of the ECF, but the majority is found in the bone. The normal values are 8.7-10.7 mg/dL. Ca2+ is essential in blood coagulation, endocrine functions, and neuromuscular function such as muscular contraction and nerve excitability. Ca2+ serum values may vary, depending on total serum protein, as a relationship exists between the two. Abnormal total serum Ca2+ levels should be verified with an ionized Ca2+ level, as this measurement is independent of serum protein levels. Parathyroid and thyroid hormones as well as vitamin D also influence Ca2+ values (LeFever, Paulanka, & Polek, 2010). Phosphorus (P+) Phosphorus (P+) is found in the bone and the ICF. The normal range of values is 2.5-4.6 mg/dL. P+ plays a role in neuromuscular function, formation of bones and teeth, body metabolism of nutrients, and forming and storing of energy such as ATP. A relationship exists between P+ and Ca2+. Therefore, if one value is abnormal, the other should be evaluated as well (LeFever, Paulanka, & Polek, 2010).

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Review of Electrolytes

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Electrolyte Imbalances: Hypernatremia

Hypernatremia and hyperchloremia are related. Causes include:

Dehydration Decreased water intake Over-administration of Na+ supplementation Diuresis Any process that causes a loss of free fluid results in increased Na+ concentration (such as vomiting , diarrhea, insensible water loss through excessive perspiration) Impaired renal function Cushings syndrome Congestive heart failure

Hypernatremia: Clinical Picture

Signs and symptoms of hypernatremia include: Anorexia, nausea, vomiting Dry tongue and mucous membranes Tachycardia Hypertension Behavior that is restless, agitated Altered level of consciousness Febrile Hyperreflexia Tremors or muscle twitching Decreased skin turgor Concentrated urine

Treatment of hypernatremia is focused on the underlying cause(s) (LeFever, Paulanka, & Polek, 2010).

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Electrolyte Imbalances: Hyponatremia

Causes of hyponatremia include: Prolonged use of D5W (this dilutes the ECF, causing water intoxication) Impaired renal function (such as salt-wasting renal disease) Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH) Addisons disease Burns Fever Metabolic alkalosis Overhydration Water retention (water retention causes a dilution of serum Na+, but the total body Na is within normal limits. This can be seen with renal failure, hepatic failure, congestive heart failure, etc.) Diuretics Low sodium intake

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Hyponatremia: Clinical Picture

Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting Tachycardia Hypotension Headaches, lethargy, confusion Muscle weakness

Signs and symptoms of hypernatremia include: Pallor Dry skin and mucous membranes Dilute urine

Treatment of hyponatremia is based on the cause(s). Na+ needs to be replaced slowly (LeFever, Paulanka, & Polek, 2010).

Electrolyte Imbalances: Hyperkalemia

Potassium levels can be falsely elevated with hemolyzed blood samples. Causes of hyperkalemia include: Over-administration of potassium supplements Metabolic acidosis Renal failure Potassium-sparing diuretics ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers (both affect potassium balance) Trauma/bruising/bleeding (cell breakdown causes potassium loss) Addisons disease

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Hyperkalemia: Clinical Picture

Clinical signs and symptoms of hyperkalemia include: ECG changes: tachycardia, widened QRS, peaked T waves, lengthening of PR interval, P wave difficult to identify, ventricular fibrillation Decreased urine output Lethargy Decreased muscle tone, muscle cramps

Treatment is of the underlying cause(s). If the cause is acidosis, then it must be corrected. Diuretics may be used if renal problem. In addition, the following are treatments for hyperkalemia: Kayexalate: This is a cation-exchange resin, Na+ based (An ion-exchange resin that has the ability to exchange positive ions in the stationary phase with positive ions in solution) Calcium administration: Used to decrease the antagonistic effect of potassium excess on the myocardium Insulin/glucose drip: Insulin enhances cellular uptake of K+, forcing it back into cells (LeFever, Paulanka, & Polek, 2010).

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Electrolyte Imbalances: Hypokalemia

Causes of hypokalemia include: Malnutrition, anorexia Decreased K+ intake Alcoholism K+ losses through vomiting, diarrhea, or gastric suctioning Diuretics Acute renal failure Steroids Stress Insulin Epinephrine, bronchodilators Metabolic alkalosis Cushings syndrome

Hypokalemia: Clinical Picture

Clinical signs and symptoms of hypokalemia include: ECG changes: Dysrhythmias, shortened ST segment, flattened or inverted T-waves, appearance of U wave Intestinal ileus, gastric dilation Anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea Polyuria Malaise, drowsiness, altered level of consciousness Muscle weakness

Treatment of hypokalemia includes underlying cause needs to be determined and treated. Any acid-base imbalances needs to be corrected. Use K+-sparing diuretics K+ supplementation (slowly) Identify and correct any other electrolyte imbalances (LeFever, Paulanka, & Polek, 2010).

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Electrolyte Imbalances: Hypermagnesia

Causes of hypermagnesia include: Over-administration of magnesium products (including antacids) Renal insufficiency Renal failure Addisons disease Severe dehydration Ketoacidosis

Hypermagnesia: Clinical Picture

Signs and symptoms of hypermagnesia include: Drowsiness, weakness Lethargy Loss of deep tendon reflexes Paralysis Hypotension Third degree heart block ECG changes: widened QRS complex, prolonged QT interval Flushing Respiratory depression

Treatment includes treating underlying causes. Use of IV Na+ or Ca2+ can decrease the serum magnesium level. IV calcium is an antagonist to magnesium, which can decrease the symptoms of hypermagnesia. If renal failure is the cause, dialysis may be necessary (LeFever, Paulanka, & Polek, 2010).

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Electrolyte Imbalances: Hypomagnesia

Causes of hypomagnesia include: Malnutrition or inadequate Mg2+ intake Malabsorption Alcoholism Increased Ca2+ intake Chronic diarrhea Diuretics Ketoacidosis Acute renal failure Acute myocardial failure Hypokalemia or hypocalcemia Metabolic acidosis Aminoglycosides, digoxin

Hypomagnesia: Clinical Picture

Clinical signs and symptoms of hypomagnesia include: Hyperirritability Tremors Spasticity Hypertension Cardiac dysrhythmias: premature ventricular contractions, ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation ECG changes: flat or inverted T waves, depressed ST

Treatment includes underlying causes and magnesium replacement therapy (LeFever, Paulanka, & Polek, 2010).

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Electrolyte Imbalances: Hypercalcemia

Causes of hypercalcemia include: Over-administration of calcium supplements Renal impairment Thiazide diuretics Bone fractures or prolonged immobility Malignancy Hyperparathyroidism Steroids Hypophosphatemia

Hypercalcemia: Clinical Picture

Clinical manifestations of hypercalcemia include: ECG changes: diminished ST segment, shortened QT interval, third degree heart block Pathologic fractures Decreased muscle tone Depression Flank pain and/or kidney stones

Treatment is aimed at the underlying causes. Normal saline, loop diuretics, calcitonin, and corticosteroids are also used (LeFever, Paulanka, & Polek, 2010).

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Electrolyte Imbalances: Hypocalcemia

Dietary deficiencies of calcium, protein, and/or vitamin D Chronic diarrhea Low albumin Renal failure

Causes of hypocalcemia include:

Hypoparathyroid Hyperphosphatemia Hypermagnesia or hypomagnesia Alkalosis

Hypocalcemia: Clinical Picture

Clinical signs and symptoms of hypocalcemia include: Abnormal clotting Tetany, muscle twitches or tremors Muscle cramps Numbness and tingling Irritability, anxiety ECG changes: Prolonged QT interval, lengthened ST segment Fractures with continued hypocalcemia

Treatment is aimed at the underlying cause: If hypoparathroid or vitamin D deficits, these needs treatment. Ca2+ supplements used for replacement therapy (LeFever, Paulanka, & Polek, 2010).

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Electrolyte Imbalances: Hyperphosphatemia

Causes of hyperphosphatemia include: Over-administration of phophorus supplements Hypoparathyroidism Renal insufficiency Chemotherapy Metabolic acidosis Respiratory acidosis Laxative over-use

Hyperphosphatemia: Clinical Picture

Signs and symptoms of hyperphosphatemia include: Tachycardia Nausea and diarrhea Abdominal cramps

Treatment may incorporate administration of insulin and glucose, which can lower the serum phosphorus level by shifting phosphorus from the ECF into the cells (LeFever, Paulanka, & Polek, 2010). Hyperreflexia Tetany Muscle weakness

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Electrolyte Imbalances: Hypophosphatemia

Hypophosphatemia may be caused by: Ketoacidosis Burns Metabolic alkalosis Respiratory alkalosis Diuretics Antacids containing aluminum Malnutrition, anorexia Alcoholism Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) Vomiting, diarrhea Malabsorption Hyperparathyroidism

Hypophosphatemia: Clinical Picture

Clinical signs and symptoms include: Muscle weakness Tremors Bone pain Hyporeflexia Seizures Tissue hypoxia Risk of bleeding and infection Weak pulse Hyperventilation Anorexia, dysphagia

Treatment includes replacement of phosphorus through sodium phosphate or potassium phosphate (LeFever, Paulanka, & Polek, 2010).

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Other Chemistry Tests

In addition to electrolytes, there are other laboratory tests that are included in a complete metabolic panel. This combination of analytes can assist in providing additional information about renal and hepatic function. Components that will be examined include glucose, serum albumin, amylase, serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), uric acid, alkaline phosphatase, protein, and bilirubin. There are further analytes used in testing which will not be covered at this time.

Glucose
Glucose is a monosaccharide, or a simple sugar, which is a product of cellulose, starch and glycogen. Free glucose occurs in the blood and is the primary source of energy for use in tissues of the body. The normal range is 60-200 mg/dL (non-fasting). Excess glucose is stored as glycogen in the liver or muscle tissue (Warrell, Firth, & Cox, 2010).

Hyperglycemia
Diabetes mellitus Hyperosmolar nonketotic syndrome (HNKS) Cushing's syndrome Increased epinephrine levels from extreme stress (illness, trauma, surgery Excess growth hormone secretion Over-administration of glucose Pregnancy (gestational diabetes) Medications- particularly steroids

Hyperglycemia occurs with a blood glucose greater than 200 mg/dL non-fasting, or a fasting blood glucose >100 mg/dL. Causes of hyperglycemia include:

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Hyperglycemia: Clinical Picture

Signs and symptoms of hyperglycemia may be subtle. These can include: Polydipsia- increased thirst Dehydration- dry mucous membranes, decreased skin turgor Poluria Irritability, headaches, confusion Decreased level of consciousness Changes in vision

Treatment includes increased fluids and insulin administration (Warrell, Firth, & Cox, 2010). Blood glucose levels should be monitored per facility policy.

Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia occurs with blood glucose less than 60 mg/dL non-fasting. Causes of hypoglycemia include: Imbalance between energy consumption and use- can occur with malnutrition, inadequate nutritional intake and exercise Over-administration of insulin Liver disease such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, liver cancer Over-production of insulin, such as insulin-secreting tumors Medications, including beta-blockers, sulfonylureas, and oral hypoglycemic agents

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Hypoglycemia: Clinical Picture

Signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia may also be subtle. These can include: Altered level of consciousness Confusion Tremors, jitteriness Hunger Pallor Diaphoresis

Treatment includes providing glucose and carbohydrates. Depending on the patients status and facility protocol, this may be intravenous or orally (Warrell, Firth, & Cox, 2010). Blood glucose levels should be monitored per facility policy.

Serum Albumin
Albumin is a large protein found in the blood plasma that maintains the osmotic pressure between the blood vessels and tissue. It is also used to determine liver function, kidney function, and nutrition (Warrell, Firth, & Cox, 2010). The normal range for serum albumin is 3.5-4.8 g/dL.

Hypoalbuminemia
Hypoalbuminemia occurs with a serum albumin <3.5 g/dL. Causes may include: Poor nutrition Liver disease Impaired renal function Burns Lymphatic disease or cancer Congestive heart failure Inflammatory process

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Hyperalbuminemia
Hyperalbuminemia occurs with a serum albumin >4.8 g/dL. Causes may include: Dehydration Liver disease Impaired renal function

Hypoalbuminemia and Hyperalbuminemia: Clinical Picture

Clinical signs and symptoms of hypoalbuminemia and hyperalbuminemia are related to the disease process involved. Treatment is also focused on the underlying cause(s) (Warrell, Firth, & Cox, 2010).

Review of Analytes

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Chemistry Panel: Case Study #1

A 22 year old male patient is brought in via ambulance after being found unresponsive at home. He is difficult to arouse and unable to answer questions. He appears thin, and has poor skin turgor. BP is 100/60, HR 100, RR 16, T 99.2F. The EMS unit started an IV with normal saline, and was unable to obtain a blood glucose reading. The first attempt at arterial blood gas is unsuccessful. The chemistry results return as follows: Sodium (Na+) Potassium (K+) Chloride (Cl-) Magnesium (Mg2+) Calcium (Ca2+) Phosphorus (P+) Glucose Creatinine 150 mmol/L 5.1 mmol/L 88 mmol/L 2.6 mg/dL 9.2 mg/dL 4.2 mg/dL 987 mg/dL 1.7 mg/dL

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Chemistry Panel: Case Study #2 You have a 45 year old female patient, complaining of steady right upper quadrant pain. BP is 138/98, HR 102, RR 14, T 98.9F. She has been experiencing nausea and vomiting x 24 hours. She has poor skin turgor, and you note yellowed sclera. Her abdomen is non-distended but very painful to touch. She rates her pain as a 10. CBC is pending. Chemistry panel results include: Sodium (Na+) Potassium (K+) Chloride (Cl-) Magnesium (Mg2+) Calcium (Ca2+) Phosphorus (P+) Glucose Serum albumin Amylase Serum Creatinine BUN Alkaline Phos. Protein Bilirubin 147 mmol/L 2.9 mmol/L 100 mmol/L 1.4 mg/dL 9.2 mg/dL 2.3 mg/dL 188 mg/dL 3.0 g/dL 185 unit/L 0.5 mg/dL 15 mg/dL 155 unit/L 8.6 g/dL 3.5 mg/dL

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Complete Blood Count

The complete blood count (CBC) is a commonly ordered laboratory test. Tests included in a CBC include: Red blood cell count (RBC) Hematocrit (Hct) Hemoglobin (Hb or Hgb) Red blood cell components, such as mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) White blood count (WBC) A differential white blood cell count (diff) Platelets

Ranges for normal laboratory values vary among age groups, genders, and laboratories. The laboratory references given in this course are averages; refer to the normal ranges provided by your facilitys laboratory.

CBC Overview
Ranges for normal laboratory values vary among age groups, genders, and laboratories. The laboratory references given in this course are averages; refer to the normal ranges provided by your facilitys laboratory. A typical adult circulates about 5 L of blood, which is comprised of 3 L plasma and 2 L of blood cells. White blood cells (leukocytes), red blood cells (erythrocytes), and platelets (thrombocytes) are all created in the bone marrow. CBC results can be affected by the time of day, hydration, medications, and other blood values.

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Red Blood Cells

The primary purpose of RBCs, or erythrocytes, is to carry oxygen from the lungs to body tissues and to transfer carbon dioxide from the tissues to the lungs. Oxygen transfer occurs via the hemoglobin contained in the RBCs, which combines with oxygen and carbon dioxide. Normal red blood cells values are: Adults: (males): 4.6-6.0 million/uL (Females): 4.2-5.0 million/uL Pregnancy: slightly lower than normal adult values

The average range of values for RBC is 4-5.9 million/uL.

Polycythemia
An increase in the number of red blood cells is known as polycythemia. Causes for polycythemia include: High altitudes Strenuous physical activity Medications, such as gentamicin and methyldopa Smoking Hydration Polycythemia vera COPD Chronic hypoxia

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Polycythemia: Clinical Picture

Symptoms of polycythemia may include: Weakness Headache Fatigue Lightheadedness Shortness of breath Visual disturbances Pruritus Pain in the chest or leg muscles Ruddy complexion Confusion Tinnitus

Treatment is focused on the underlying cause. Phlebotomy to remove blood or use of medications to decrease red blood cell production may also be used (Van Leeuwen, Poelhuis-Leth, & Bladh, 2011).

Anemia
A decrease in RBCs is known as anemia is a decrease in RBC. Causes of anemia can include: Hemorrhage Destruction of red blood cells Iron deficiency Chronic disease processes Malnutrition Pernicious or sickle cell anemia Thalassemia Chemotherapy or radiation Medications, such as anti-infectives

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Anemia: Clinical Picture

Symptoms of anemia may include: Fatigue Low energy Weakness Shortness of breath Dizziness Palpitations Pallor Chest pain Tachycardia Hypotension Fainting

Treatment is focused on the underlying cause, and dependent on severity. Iron and B12 supplementation is used. The patient may also require blood transfusions (Van Leeuwen, Poelhuis-Leth, & Bladh, 2011).

Hematocrit
The hematocrit (Hct) determines the percentage of red blood cells in the plasma. It is calculated when a blood sample is spun down, and the red blood cells sink to the bottom of the sample. Normal hematocrit values are: Adults: (males): 40- 54% (Females): 37 46% Pregnancy: decreased hematocrit, especially in the last trimester as plasma volume increases

The average range of values for hematocrit is 37-54% Critical values include: A hematocrit <15% can cause cardiac failure A hematocrit >60% can cause spontaneous blood clotting

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Effects on Hematocrit
An increase or decrease in plasma volume affects the hematocrit. Some conditions that affect plasma volume and hematocrit include: Burns Overhydration or dehydration Hemorrhage Transfusions

(Van Leeuwen, Poelhuis-Leth, & Bladh, 2011)

Hemoglobin
Hemoglobin (Hgb) is a molecule comprised of an iron-containing pigment (heme) and a protein (globulin). The ability of blood to carry oxygen is directly proportional to its hemoglobin concentration. The number of RBCs may not accurately reveal the blood's oxygen content because some cells may contain more hemoglobin than others. Normal hemoglobin values are: Adult: (males): 13.5 - 17 g/dl (Females): 12 - 15 g/dl Pregnancy: 11 - 12 g/dl

The average range of values for hemoglobin is 12-17.5 g/dL. Critical values include: A hemoglobin < 5 g/dl can cause heart failure A hemoglobin > 20 g/dl can cause hemoconcentration and clotting

Effects on Hemoglobin
Hemoglobin can be affected by any conditions that affect the RBC count. Conditions that cause polycythemia and anemia also impact the hemoglobin levels. Levels are also affected by disorders that cause abnormal hemoglobin.

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MCV, MCH, and MCHC

Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) is the measurement of the average size of individual red blood cells, calculated by dividing the hematocrit by the total RBCs. Mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) is the measurement of the mass of the hemoglobin in an RBC, calculated by dividing the hemoglobin by the total RBCs. Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) measures how much of each cell is taken up by hemoglobin. The calculation is the hemoglobin divided by the hematocrit and multiplied by 100. The MCV, MCH, and MCHC can assist in identification and diagnoses of disease processes.

White Blood Cells

White blood cells (WBC), or leukocytes, are classified into granulocytes (which include neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils) and agranulocytes (which include lymphocytes and monocytes). WBC are released from the bone marrow and destroyed in the lymphatic system after 14-21 days. Leukocytes fight infection through phagocytosis, where the cells surround and destroy foreign organisms. White blood cells also supply antibodies as part of the body's immune response. The average range of values for WBC is 4-10 thousand/uL. WBC critical lab values include: A WBC <500 places the patient at risk for a fatal infection. A WBC >30,000 indicates massive infection or serious disease (e.g. leukemia)

WBC Differential
The differential consists of the percentage of each of the five types of white blood cells. Normal values for differential are: Bands or stabs: 3 - 5 % Neutrophils (or segs): 50 - 70% relative value (2500-7000 absolute value) Eosinophils: 1 - 3% relative value (100-300 absolute value) Basophils: 0.4% - 1% relative value (40-100 absolute value) Lymphocytes: 25 - 35% relative value (1700-3500 absolute value) Monocytes: 4 - 6% relative value (200-600 absolute value)

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Leukocytosis
Leukocytosis occurs with a WBC above 10,000. Some causes of leukocytosis include: Trauma Inflammation Acute infection Dehydration Hemoconcentration Cancer, such as leukemia Medications, such as corticosteroids

Treatment is focused on the underlying cause, and dependent on severity (Van Leeuwen, Poelhuis-Leth, & Bladh, 2011).

Leukocytosis: Clinical Picture

Signs and symptoms of leukocytosis may be subtle or related to the disease process occurring. Symptoms may include: Fatigue Hepatomegaly Splenomegaly Bleeding Bruising or petechiae

Leukopenia
Leukopenia occurs when the WBC falls below 4,000. Some causes of leukopenia include: Bone marrow disorders Viral infections Severe bacterial infections Cancer Medications, include chemotherapy, antibiotics, anticonvulsants, cardiac medications

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Leukopenia: Clinical Picture

Signs and symptoms of leukopenia may be subtle or related to the disease process occurring. Symptoms may include: Headache Fatigue Fever Bleeding

Treatment is focused on the underlying cause, and dependent on severity. Steroids, vitamins, and cytokines can be used (Van Leeuwen, Poelhuis-Leth, & Bladh, 2011).

Leukopenia/Neutropenia
Patients with severe leukopenia or neutropenia should be protected from anything that places them at risk for infection. Facilities may have a neutropenic or leukopenic precautions or protocol for these patients. Considerations include: Complete isolation No injections No rectal temperatures or enema

Platelets
Platelets are fragments of cells that are formed in the bone marrow, and are vital to blood clotting. Platelets live for approximately nine to 12 days in the bloodstream. The average range of values for platelets is 150,000 and 399,000/mm.

Thrombocytosis
Thrombocytosis is an increase in platelets >399,000. Some causes of thrombocytosis include: Injury Inflammatory process Bone marrow disorder Cancer Kidney disease Acute blood loss Infection

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Thrombocytosis: Clinical Picture

Signs and symptoms of thrombocytosis include: Dizziness Headache Chest pain Weakness Neuropathy Vision changes Fainting

Treatment is focused on the underlying cause, and dependent on severity (Van Leeuwen, Poelhuis-Leth, & Bladh, 2011).

Thrombocytopenia
Thrombocytopenia occurs when the platelet count is <150,000, placing the patient at a high risk for bleeding due to injury or disease. A platelet count <20,000 can cause spontaneous bleeding that may result in patient death. Some causes of thrombocytopenia include: Impaired platelet production Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), which uses up platelets rapidly Immune disorders Suppression of bone marrow through chemotherapy, radiation, or other therapy Cancer

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Thrombocytopenia: Clinical Picture

Signs and symptoms of thrombocytopenia include: Easy bruising or bleeding Hematuria Black, tar-like stools or frank bleeding with bowel movements Hematemesis Syncope Visual disturbances

Treatment is focused on the underlying cause, and dependent on severity. Platelet transfusions may be used with severe thrombocytopenia (Van Leeuwen, Poelhuis-Leth, & Bladh, 2011).

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Review of CBC

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CBC Values: Case Study #1

You have a 62 year old male patient, complaining of fatigue, dizziness, and bleeding from his gums. On assessment, you notice multiple bruises on upper and lower extremities, back and trunk. BP is 138/98, HR 88, RR 12, T 100.9F. His CBC results are as follows: Red Blood Cells (RBC) Hematocrit Hemoglobin White Blood Cells Platelets 4.5 million/uL 40% 13.2 g/dL 2.9 thousand/uL 99 x 10/mm

CBC Values: Case Study #2

Your patient is a 24 year old female, with a history of drug abuse. She is complaining of shortness of breath, dizziness, chest pain and palpitations. She appears pale and malnourished. BP 90/56, HR 106, RR 18, T 98.2F, O2 sat 89%. Her CBC results are as follows: Red Blood Cells (RBC) Hematocrit Hemoglobin White Blood Cells Platelets 3.3 million/uL 23% 9 g/dL 4.9 thousand/uL 199 x 10/mm

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Conclusion
In this course, you learned: Common blood tests for patients include electrolyte panels and complete blood counts. It is important for nurses as members of the interdisciplinary care team to be able to recognize abnormal lab values, and anticipate plans of care and treatment for their patients.

References
LeFever, J., Paulanka, B., & Polek, C. (2010). Handbook of fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base imbalances (3rd ed). Clifton Park, NY: Delmar Cengage Learning. Rush Medical University Center. (2012). Rush Medical Laboratory: Normal ranges for common laboratory tests. In Martindales: The Reference Desk. Retrieved January 2012 from http://www.martindalecenter.com/Reference_3_LabP.html Van Leeuwen, A.M., Poelhuis-Leth, D., & Bladh, M.L. (2011). Davis's comprehensive handbook of laboratory & diagnostic tests with nursing implications (4th ed). Philadelphia, PA: F.A. Davis Company. Warrell, D.A., Firth, J.D., & Cox, T.M. (eds). (2010). Oxford textbook of medicine (5th ed). Oxford, NY: Oxford University Press.

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