Written by a highly respected author in the lab and diagnostic test field, this reference explains in detail the clinical significance of tests and diagnostic procedures. Its comprehensive coverage is augmented by a strong emphasis on nursing care as applied to lab and diagnostic tests, and on the relationship between nursing diagnoses and nursing care. Both scholarly and practical, it is ideal for use in both classroom and clinical settings. Each chapter is organized as an independent study unitcomplete with objectives, an organizing theme with background information (called an expository organizer), and test questions.Topics addressed include using laboratory data, a complete series of tests including Hematology, Routine Urinalysis and Renal Function Tests, Commonly Measured Electrolytes, Arterial Blood Gases, Tests to Measure the Metabolism of Glucose, Lipid Metabolism and Other Cardiac Risk Factors, Bilirubin, Tests to Measure Enzymes and Cardiac Markers, Serologic, Endocrine and Culture and Sensitivity Tests and more. Plus case studies.For Registered Nurses