Lab values & electrolytes worksheet with answers

Which hemoglobin value in an adult woman is below the typical reference range?

1. A12.8 g/dL (128 g/L)
2. B13.5 g/dL (135 g/L)
3. C14.6 g/dL (146 g/L)
4. D9.2 g/dL (92 g/L)

Chronic kidney disease is usually defined by an eGFR below which value for more than 3 months?

1. A90 mL/min/1.73 m²
2. B60 mL/min/1.73 m²
3. C120 mL/min/1.73 m²
4. D15 mL/min/1.73 m²

What does a "stat" laboratory order mean?

1. AThe test is done next week
2. BThe test is done if time allows
3. CThe test is done immediately
4. DThe test is done at night

A patient's potassium is unexpectedly 5.8 mEq/L. The sample was taken after the tourniquet was on for several minutes while the patient pumped their fist. What is the best interpretation?

1. AThe result may be falsely high and should be repeated with better technique
2. BThe result confirms true hyperkalemia and needs no further checking
3. CTourniquet time affects only the glucose result, not the potassium
4. DFist pumping lowers potassium, so the true level is even higher

A patient with hyperkalemia received IV regular insulin with dextrose. Which result must the nurse monitor closely over the next hours?

1. ASerum calcium, because it falls sharply
2. BBlood glucose, because hypoglycemia can occur
3. CSerum sodium, because it rises quickly
4. DHemoglobin, because insulin causes red cell loss

A stool test for Clostridioides difficile is ordered. Which sample is appropriate?

1. AA rectal swab from a patient with constipation
2. BAn unformed (liquid or soft) stool
3. CA formed, hard stool sample
4. DAny stool after a laxative dose

Two days after bowel surgery, a patient with nasogastric suction has a distended abdomen, absent bowel sounds and muscle weakness. The potassium is 2.8 mEq/L. Which interpretation is best?

1. AThe potassium is normal for the second day after surgery
2. BHyperkalemia from tissue damage is causing the bowel to stop
3. CHypokalemia from gastric losses is contributing to paralytic ileus
4. DThe low potassium is due to the patient drinking too much water

A patient has marked generalized edema. Results show heavy proteinuria, serum albumin 1.8 g/dL (18 g/L) and total cholesterol 340 mg/dL (8.8 mmol/L). Which condition fits best?

1. ANephrotic syndrome
2. BAcute pyelonephritis
3. CLiver cirrhosis only
4. DPrerenal kidney injury