What it means
Usually shortened to "lab". "Labs" also means the results of laboratory tests, as in "review the morning labs". The lab compares each result with a reference range and calls the unit at once with a critical value.
For the nurse
Label every sample in front of the client using two identifiers, send it promptly, and review results before giving drugs that depend on them. Report critical values to the provider right away.
At a glance
| Spanish | laboratorio |
|---|---|
| Also written | laboratories |
Related terms
arterial blood gas
A blood test from an artery that measures oxygen, carbon dioxide, bicarbonate and the blood's pH.
creatinine
A waste product of muscle that the kidneys remove from the blood; its blood level is used to measure how well the kidneys work.
blood urea nitrogen
A blood test that measures urea nitrogen, a waste product made when the body breaks down protein.