What are common lab tests nurses should be familiar with?
Nurses should be familiar with a variety of common lab tests, including:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC): Evaluates overall health and detects a variety of disorders, such as infections, anemia, and leukemia. - Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP): Measures glucose, calcium, and electrolytes, and provides information about the body's fluid balance and kidney function. - Liver Function Tests (LFTs): Assess the state of the liver and help diagnose liver diseases. - Coagulation Profile: Measures the blood's ability to clot and includes tests like PT, INR, and aPTT. - Urinalysis: Detects and manages a wide range of disorders, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney disease, and diabetes.
