Blood Test Fundamentals for Nurses

From the study guide

Course Outline

  1. Basic Blood Tests
  2. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
  3. CBC Components and Implications
  4. Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP)
  5. BMP Components and Implications
  6. Coagulation Studies
  7. PT and INR
  8. aPTT and Heparin
  9. Liver Function Tests
  10. LFT Components and Implications
  11. Thyroid Function Tests
  12. Thyroid Hormone Levels

1. Basic Blood Tests

Key Concepts & Definitions

  • Complete Blood Count (CBC): A blood test measuring red blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, white blood cells, and platelets to evaluate overall health and detect disorders like anemia, infection, or bleeding issues.

  • Blood Glucose: The amount of sugar in the blood; normal fasting range is 70–99 mg/dL. Elevated levels indicate hyperglycemia, often associated with diabetes mellitus.

  • Electrolytes (Sodium, Potassium, Chloride, Bicarbonate): Minerals vital for nerve function, fluid balance, and acid-base regulation. Imbalances can cause serious cardiac and neurological issues.

  • Coagulation Tests (PT, INR, aPTT): Assess blood clotting ability. PT/INR monitor warfarin therapy; aPTT monitors heparin therapy. Abnormalities may indicate bleeding risk or clotting disorders.

  • Liver Function Tests (ALT, AST, ALP, Bilirubin): Measure liver enzymes and bilirubin to detect liver inflammation, damage, or cholestasis.

  • Thyroid Function Tests (TSH, Free T4, T3): Evaluate thyroid gland activity. Abnormal levels indicate hypo- or hyperthyroidism.

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Practice quiz preview

1. What are Liver Function Tests (LFTs) primarily used for?

2. Which enzyme is specifically measured in Liver Function Tests (LFTs) to indicate liver inflammation or damage?

3. What is the primary role of bilirubin measurement in liver function tests?

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Flashcard preview

Liver Function Tests — purpose?

Assess liver health and detect damage.

ALT — role?

Indicates liver cell injury.

AST — significance?

Elevated in liver and muscle damage.

CBC — components?

RBC, hemoglobin, hematocrit, WBC, platelets.

Blood Glucose — normal range?

70–99 mg/dL fasting.

Electrolytes — functions?

Nerve function, fluid balance, pH regulation.

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What does the Blood Test Fundamentals for Nurses study guide cover?

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The practice quiz has 10 multiple-choice questions, each with an explanation. Use it to check what you know and find your gaps.

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