What would you recommend to study lab values?

Question

I am a gratuate nurse, studying to take the nclex. I failed twice and bedding some test stratigies. Thank you. 

Answer 1

I had a lot of success with Mosby's Manual of Diagnostic and Laboratory Tests. It's broken up into tests by body system and gives you the need to know. I agree that it is important to understand the normal ranges for basic labs. I would make sure you understand the normal ranges for major electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium etc. Also know your normal ranges for blood gases. In addition to the normal ranges for basic labs and electrolytes, know which electrolytes are vital for the functioning of specific body systems Ie sodium to the neurological system, potassium to cardiac function. Lastly, know some basic symptoms of electrolyte and acid base imbalances. That will give you a great foundation for the NCLEX. Good luck:)

Answer 2

You just have to remember basic labs

There is a trick to remembering

For example:

K 3.5-4.5

Na 135-145

PCO2 35-45

If you can see from this example, all of them have 35-45