Lab values & electrolytes worksheet with answers

A raised procalcitonin level most strongly suggests:

1. AA bacterial infection
2. BAn allergic reaction
3. CIron-deficiency anemia
4. DA viral common cold

In the US (NCEP ATP III) classification, which LDL cholesterol level is called optimal for an adult?

1. AAbout 190 mg/dL (4.9 mmol/L) or more
2. BAbout 160–189 mg/dL (4.1–4.9 mmol/L)
3. CBelow 100 mg/dL (2.6 mmol/L)
4. DAbout 220–260 mg/dL (5.7–6.7 mmol/L)

Tapping on the facial nerve in front of the ear makes the corner of the mouth twitch. What is this sign called, and what does it suggest?

1. ABabinski’s sign, suggesting low sodium
2. BHomans’ sign, suggesting high potassium
3. CTrousseau’s sign, suggesting high calcium
4. DChvostek’s sign, suggesting low calcium

A blood sample drawn just after a patient ate a fatty meal is reported as "lipemic." What does this mean for the results?

1. AThe results are more accurate than in a fasting sample
2. BHigh fat in the sample may interfere with some test results
3. CThe sample shows the patient has diabetic ketoacidosis
4. DThe sample was contaminated by an IV fluid with dextrose

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

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

Which factor is most likely to raise a patient’s lithium level?

1. ADrinking more fluid than usual in hot weather
2. BEating more salt than usual for several days
3. CTaking each dose with a meal instead of before
4. DDehydration or a sudden drop in sodium intake

A patient taking an SGLT2 inhibitor has nausea and fast breathing. Glucose 190 mg/dL (10.5 mmol/L), pH 7.15, bicarbonate 10 mEq/L, blood ketones high. What is the most likely diagnosis?

1. AEuglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis
2. BSimple fasting ketosis only
3. CRespiratory acidosis from COPD
4. DHyperosmolar hyperglycemic state

A young woman with frequent self-induced vomiting has swollen salivary glands. Which laboratory pattern is most likely?

1. AHigh potassium, low bicarbonate and low amylase
2. BHigh calcium, high phosphate and high glucose
3. CLow potassium, high bicarbonate and high amylase
4. DLow sodium, low bicarbonate and high lipase