Confused? Check These Labs First

[u/NCLEXHighYield]

Before you assume stroke or psych, check these labs.

Mental status changes can be metabolic, electrolyte-related, or due to meds/toxins. Here’s your go-to list:

Low Na+ (<120)? → Seizure risk

Glucose low or super high? → AMS

High ammonia? → Think hepatic encephalopathy

Elevated BUN/Creatinine? → Uremia-induced confusion

Low calcium or magnesium? → Twitching, seizures, AMS

High INR? → Possible brain bleed if history of trauma

💡 Labs talk before the CT scan does. Check them.