Final answer:
When you notice a lab value is out of range, evaluate the result critically and consider possible reasons. Check if it falls within the normal range and interpret the significance based on other factors.
Step-by-step explanation:
When you notice that a lab value is out of range, the most appropriate step to take is to evaluate the result critically and consider possible reasons for the abnormal value.
One way to determine if the result is reasonable is by checking if it falls within the normal range for that specific lab value. Each lab test has established normal ranges, and values outside of these ranges may indicate an underlying health condition.
It is important to consider other factors such as patient symptoms, medical history, and other lab values to interpret the significance of the abnormal result.