Lab values & electrolytes worksheet with answers

What is a typical adult reference range for serum magnesium?

1. AAbout 0.3–0.7 mEq/L (0.15–0.35 mmol/L)
2. BAbout 1.3–2.1 mEq/L (0.65–1.05 mmol/L)
3. CAbout 3.5–5.0 mEq/L (1.75–2.5 mmol/L)
4. DAbout 6.0–8.0 mEq/L (3.0–4.0 mmol/L)

A urine dipstick is positive for leukocyte esterase. What does this show?

1. AWhite blood cells are present in the urine
2. BBilirubin is being passed in the urine
3. CProtein is leaking through the glomeruli
4. DRed blood cells are present in the urine

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

1. AAbove 240 mg/dL (6.2 mmol/L)
2. BBetween 250 and 300 mg/dL (6.5–7.8 mmol/L)
3. CBelow 300 mg/dL (7.8 mmol/L)
4. DBelow 200 mg/dL (5.2 mmol/L)

Which instruction is correct for a patient taking an oral potassium chloride supplement?

1. AUse a salt substitute as well, so less of the tablet is needed each day
2. BCrush the extended-release tablets and mix them with a little water if needed
3. CTake it with food and a full glass of water, and do not crush extended-release tablets
4. DTake it on an empty stomach with only a small sip of water to speed absorption

A patient on phenytoin has a level of 28 mcg/mL (usual range about 10–20 mcg/mL). Which findings would the nurse expect?

1. AHunger and weight gain
2. BNystagmus, unsteady gait and slurred speech
3. CTall, peaked T waves
4. DHyperactive behavior and insomnia only

A patient with chronic kidney disease has a magnesium of 3.8 mEq/L (1.9 mmol/L). Which product is the most likely cause?

1. ALoop diuretics such as furosemide
2. BProton pump inhibitors taken long term
3. CExcess alcohol use over many years
4. DMagnesium-containing laxatives or antacids

A patient with thalassemia major has received regular red cell transfusions for years. The ferritin is now very high. What does this most likely show, and what treatment is used?

1. ALiver failure, treated with a liver transplant at once
2. BIron overload, treated with iron chelation therapy
3. CAcute infection, treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics
4. DIron deficiency, treated with IV iron supplements

Which patient should the nurse assess first?

1. AHeart failure with a BNP lower than the result on admission
2. BStable angina with a total cholesterol of 245 mg/dL (6.3 mmol/L)
3. CChest pain with troponin rising from the first to the second sample
4. DHypertension with a potassium of 3.6 mEq/L on a thiazide