ER Lexicon

The ER, translated

Emergency care uses fast, abbreviated language. This section explains the most common terms in plain words.

Hemoglobin lower than normal on a CBC blood test
Normal range: about 12 to 16 g/dL for women and 13.5 to 17.5 g/dL for men
Arrhythmia — An abnormal heart rhythm seen on an EKG or monitor
Normal rhythm: regular sinus rhythm at 60 to 100 beats per minute
A heart rate that is slower than normal
Normal resting heart rate: 60 to 100 beats per minute
Bradycardia is typically below 60
or ECG - A heart tracing that looks for rhythm problems or signs of strain
Blood pressure that is consistently elevated
Normal blood pressure: around 120 over 80
High blood pressure: 130 over 80 or higher
Blood pressure that is too low to maintain good circulation
Normal systolic pressure: usually 100 to 120 mmHg
Hypotension often considered below 90 systolic
Blood sugar higher than normal on a finger stick or blood test
Normal fasting glucose: 70 to 100 mg/dL
Random glucose is generally acceptable under 140 mg/dL
Blood sugar that has dropped too low
Normal glucose: 70 to 100 mg/dL
Hypoglycemia is typically below 70 mg/dL

Low oxygen levels on the pulse oximeter
Normal oxygen saturation: 95 to 100 percent
Concerning levels: typically below 90 percent
Signs of infection or injury that may show up as swelling, pain, or elevated blood markers
A high white blood cell count on a CBC blood test, often suggesting infection or stress
Leukocytosis: typically above 11,000 per microliter
No dangerous problem was found on that test
Nothing to eat or drink while we determine whether surgery or a procedure will be needed
An order meaning do this immediately
A heart rate that is faster than normal
The first nursing assessment that determines urgency based on symptoms and vital signs