How to Read Pediatric Blood Test Results

Pediatric blood test results are sometimes different than adult results, as the values will vary depending on age, weight and other factors. Each independent lab may have different values as well. Read the results based on what the lab defines as a normal range.

Instructions

• 1

  Familiarize yourself with the proper terms for different types of blood counts, or number of each type of cell. The CBC (Complete Blood Count) is one of the most common types of pediatric blood tests. Normal values include: Hematocrit (30 to 40 percent); Hemoglobin (10 to 13 gm/dl); White Blood Count (3,000 to 10,000 cells/mcl); and Platelets (170,000 to 380,000/mm3).

• 2

  Find and read the glucose range, another very common blood test for children that is used in screening for diabetes. Normal range for pediatric glucose is 60 to 100 mg/dl. Glucose is sometimes classified with cholesterol, which has a normal range of 80 to 200 mg/dl in children.

• 3

  Determine electrolyte balance, which is important for blood and cell function. Normal electrolyte values are Bicarbonate (24 to 34 mEq/L); Calcium (8.8 to 10.4 mg/dl); Chloride (97 to 106 mEq/L); Magnesium (1.3 to 2.3 mg/dl); Phosphate (3.2 to 5.7 mg/dl); Potassium (3.6 to 5.2 mEq/L); and Sodium (135 to 144 mEq/L).

• 4

  Understand liver function blood tests. Normal results include Bilirubin (zero to 1.4 mg/dl total; zero to .4 mg/dl direct) and Ammonia (11 to 35 mcg/dl).

• 5

  Read kidney function blood test results. Normal ranges include BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen) at 5 to 18 mg/dl and Creatinine at under .5 mg/dl.