Critical Lab Value Response on the NCLEX
What counts as critical, read-back, documentation, escalation.
Critical lab values trigger a standard response. NCLEX tests the process.
Common critical values
K+ <3 or >6. Na+ <120 or >160. Glucose <40 or >500. Hgb <7. Platelets <50K. INR >4. Troponin elevated. Critical drug levels.
Process
Read-back verification with lab tech. Notify provider within 30 min (TJC). Assess patient. Document time of receipt, name of person reporting, time notified provider, response.
If unable to reach provider
Escalate to charge nurse → house supervisor → on-call provider. Document escalation.
Frequently asked
Patient asymptomatic with critical K+?
Still respond per protocol. Recheck specimen if hemolyzed.
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