Laboratory Reference Values and Interpretation

Start with a broad set of values

Begin with the flashcard deck titled “Lab Values” that covers red and white blood cells, platelets, hemoglobin, hematocrit, electrolytes, glucose and creatinine. Use the cards to review the terms and values before moving to a more focused resource. The “Reference Ranges” deck covers electrolytes and includes critical values for sodium, potassium and calcium.

For a wider selection, “ATI Lab Values & Vital Signs” includes electrolytes alongside items such as bilirubin, liver enzymes and glucose. Choose the entries that match what you are studying, rather than trying to work through the whole deck at once.

Use maps and quizzes together

The “Lab Values” mind map brings together albumin, blood counts, glucose and electrolytes. After reviewing a flashcard deck, look at the map to see those items gathered in one place. A separate mind map focuses on hematocrit, giving you a narrower topic to explore.

When you are ready to practice, try the basic lab interpretation quiz. You can then return to the flashcards and map to review terms you want to study again. The page also lists other lab value quizzes, so you can choose another resource for further practice.

Explore the rest of the page

Some decks offer a different way into the topic. “Normal Labs” includes blood counts, clotting measures, electrolytes and glucose, while “Lab Values - Coagulation” offers a more focused option. The deck on arterial blood gases and clotting measures includes pH, bicarbonate, INR and related terms.

This topic is a section of Phlebotomy and Laboratory Diagnostics in Nursing. The resources give you different formats for working within this section, whether you prefer individual cards, a visual map or quiz practice. Pick a resource that fits your next study session.