The nurse is caring for a patient whose diagnostic exams reveal that the patient

1,2 -- The complete blood count (CBC) is performed to evaluate red blood cells, hemoglobin, and hematocrit, as well as the platelet count. When the lab values of the CBC are low, this is associated with bleeding. Coagulation studies reveal the patient’s tendency to bleed and the ability of the blood to clot. Both the CBC and coagulation studies are key parts of the nurse’s analyzing of this patient’s condition. Albumin levels reflect liver impairment and/or nutritional status and are not related to risk for bleeding. Serum ammonia levels elevate during liver failure due to the liver’s inability to convert ammonia to urea for renal excretion. This test does not provide information regarding bleeding risk. Testing for the presence of hepatitis antibodies in the blood does not provide information regarding coagulation.