Release a bounded interpretation

The worksheet supports a reproducible pattern statement, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Use the local critical-value and notification procedure for escalation. A result outside an expected range requires specimen, timing, trend, electrolyte, albumin, and clinical correlation.

Blood-gas HCO3− and chemistry total CO2 should be compared using the laboratory's locally verified, method-specific allowable difference. Here, 2 mmol/L is a validated local value; exceeding it starts specimen, method, and QC review and can warrant a redraw. Venous lactate can be falsely elevated by prolonged tourniquet time or fist clenching, while point-of-care whole-blood lactate needs anaerobic collection and prompt analysis.

Delta-gap and delta-ratio bands are screening tools with published disagreement. Method and local policy determine reference intervals, albumin correction, and escalation. Release a concise pattern statement that makes its method limits and uncertainty visible.