What This Document Is
This document provides a concentrated compilation of frequently encountered laboratory values essential for nursing students and healthcare professionals. It also includes quick-reference guides for latex allergy cross-reactivity, physical assessment order, and basic mobility assistance techniques (cane and crutch walking). Finally, it offers memory aids for delegation principles and isolation precautions.
Why This Document Matters
This resource is particularly valuable for students in foundational nursing courses like Chamberlain University’s NR 224 (Fundamentals I). It serves as a readily accessible reference during clinical practice, simulations, and exam preparation. Knowing these normal ranges is crucial for interpreting patient data and recognizing potential abnormalities. The included guides offer practical reminders for common clinical scenarios.
Common Limitations or Challenges
This document is a reference tool, *not* a comprehensive textbook. It does not explain the underlying pathophysiology of lab value deviations, nor does it detail nursing interventions for specific imbalances. It provides memory aids, but does not replace a thorough understanding of the concepts. It is a starting point, not a complete solution.
What This Document Provides
This document includes:
* Normal ranges for common lab values (Sodium, Potassium, Calcium, Magnesium, Phosphorus, BUN, Creatinine, Glucose, HgbA1c, WBC, RBC, Hemoglobin, Hematocrit, Platelet, pH, pCO2, pO2, HCO3, PT/INR, PTT, Digoxin, Lithium, Dilantin, Theophylline).
* A list of foods potentially cross-reactive with latex allergies.
* The correct order for physical assessment (IPPA, and exception for abdomen).
* Mnemonic devices for cane and crutch walking.
* A rule for RN delegation ("EAT" - Evaluate, Assess, Teach).
* Mnemonic devices and management guidelines for Airborne, Droplet, and Contact isolation precautions.
* A test-taking tip ("Slow Down!").
This preview does *not* include detailed explanations of lab value interpretations, nursing care plans, or in-depth discussions of isolation protocols.
