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The Lab Interpretation Course for Nurse Practitioners

Build confidence in lab interpretation with a self-paced online course created by nurse practitioners in collaboration with leading clinical specialists.

Trusted by 1,500+ clinicians across Canada 🇨🇦 and the United States 🇺🇸

Meet the creators

Aliya Hajee

MN, NP, MSCP
Nurse Practitioner
Course Creator & Instructor
Alix Consorti

MN, NP, MSCP
Nurse Practitioner
Expert Reviewer
Claudia Mariano

MSc, PHCNP (resigned)
Expert Reviewer
Kathryn Flanigan

MN, NP, MSCP
Nurse Practitioner
Expert Reviewer
Dr. Ziad Solh

MD, MSc, FRCPC, DRCPSC
Hematologist
Expert Reviewer (Module 2)
Dr. Supriya Joshi

MD, FRCPC
Hepatologist & Gastroenterologist
Expert Reviewer (Module 3 & 5)
Dr. Daniel Schwartz

MD, FRCPC
Nephrologist
Expert Reviewer (Module 4)
Dr. Akshay Jain

MD, FRCPC, FACE
Endocrinologist
Expert Reviewer (Module 6 & 7)

We’ve got you covered

Developed in collaboration with leading clinical experts
Designed for primary care with real-world relevance
Evidence-based, step-by-step lab interpretation framework
Self-paced, on-demand modules with lifetime access
Private peer discussion space for collaboration and support

Course overview

Lab interpretation goes beyond numbers; it requires structure, reasoning, and clinical judgment.
Developed by nurse practitioners in collaboration with leading clinical specialists, this course walks you through a practical process that mirrors how experienced clinicians think in real practice. You will learn how to confirm that a result is valid and clinically meaningful, determine how significant or urgent the finding is, interpret it within the broader presentation, decide which additional investigations are warranted, and know when specialist input or follow-up is appropriate.
It is designed to help you move beyond memorization toward true diagnostic reasoning, teaching you how to connect data with the patient in front of you. Through eight in-depth modules, you will gain the confidence to interpret results systematically and make evidence-based decisions in everyday clinical care.
The course integrates Canadian, U.S., and international clinical guidelines. Lab values are presented in both SI (metric) and conventional (imperial) units where applicable to support clinicians across North America.
Who it’s for
This program is designed for clinicians in primary care who want to strengthen their confidence in lab interpretation and clinical decision-making. It is suitable for nurse practitioners, physicians, registered nurses, physician assistants, midwives, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals involved in ordering, interpreting, or managing laboratory results.
What you’ll learn
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:
- Apply a structured approach to interpreting lab tests
- Recognize normal and abnormal results in clinical context
- Identify critical findings that require urgent action and know when referral is appropriate
- Select appropriate follow-up investigations
- Integrate lab results into clinical reasoning and management
Program format
The course is self-paced and fully online, and includes:
- Over 7 hours of video lessons created by nurse practitioners in collaboration with clinical specialists.
- Nearly 80 clinically focused quiz questions integrated throughout the course to reinforce key concepts.
- Over 200 pages of downloadable, evidence-based clinical resources for immediate use in practice.
- A private discussion space for peer connection and clinical support.
- Lifetime access with a one-time payment and no subscription required.
Click each module below to explore what you’ll learn.
Master a stepwise approach to interpreting the CBC and understanding what each abnormality means for patient care.
- Introduction to the CBC and peripheral blood smear
- Clinical anemia overview
- Approach to microcytic, normocytic, and macrocytic anemia
- Approach to polycythemia
- Evaluation of leukocyte abnormalities: neutropenia and neutrophilia
- Evaluation of leukocyte abnormalities: lymphocytopenia and lymphocytosis
- Approach to eosinophilia
- Approach to thrombocytopenia and thrombocytosis
Master a stepwise approach to interpreting the CBC and understanding what each abnormality means for patient care.
- Introduction to the CBC and peripheral blood smear
- Clinical anemia overview
- Approach to microcytic, normocytic, and macrocytic anemia
- Approach to polycythemia
- Evaluation of leukocyte abnormalities: neutropenia and neutrophilia
- Evaluation of leukocyte abnormalities: lymphocytopenia and lymphocytosis
- Approach to eosinophilia
- Approach to thrombocytopenia and thrombocytosis
Interpret iron studies and related nutrient deficiencies with confidence, integrating results into your diagnostic reasoning.
- Interpreting iron studies: ferritin, iron, TSAT, and TIBC
- Distinguishing iron deficiency from anemia of chronic disease
- Approach to iron overload
- Approach to vitamin B12 deficiency
- Approach to vitamin D deficiency
Evaluate kidney function and electrolyte disturbances using a systematic, evidence-based framework.
- Clinical assessment of renal function: creatinine and eGFR
- Interpreting urine ACR and urinalysis findings
- Distinguishing AKI from CKD
- Approach to abnormal eGFR and creatinine trends
- Stepwise evaluation of hyponatremia and hypernatremia
- Stepwise evaluation of hypokalemia and hyperkalemia
- Approach to hypercalcemia
Recognize patterns of liver injury, assess disease severity, and determine when further testing or referral is indicated.
- Patterns of abnormal liver tests: hepatocellular, cholestatic, and mixed
- Approach to isolated hyperbilirubinemia
- Interpreting hepatitis B (HBV) serology
- Interpreting hepatitis C (HCV) screening
- MASLD and fibrosis risk assessment tools
Interpret thyroid, reproductive, and adrenal hormone results using a structured clinical framework.
- Interpreting thyroid function patterns and antibody testing
- Approach to hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism
- Evaluation of amenorrhea and menstrual irregularities
- Approach to PCOS
- Laboratory assessment of perimenopause and menopause
- Approach to infertility
- Approach to low testosterone
- Approach to adrenal insufficiency and AM cortisol
Connect lab interpretation to prevention, risk reduction, and long-term metabolic health.
- Type 2 diabetes screening and diagnostic thresholds
- Recognizing red flags and type 1 diabetes
- Advanced lipid screening: Apo B and Lp(a)
- Cardiovascular risk assessment and metabolic syndrome
- Approach to elevated creatine kinase and statin safety
Interpret inflammatory and autoimmune markers accurately, recognizing systemic patterns that guide next steps in care.
- Approach to elevated ESR and CRP
- Interpreting rheumatoid factor and anti-CCP
- Approach to positive ANA, ENA, and anti-dsDNA
- Recognizing autoimmune patterns and referral thresholds

FAQs

NP Circle is accredited as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation. While this course is currently undergoing accreditation review, ANCC contact hours have not yet been designated. All enrolled learners will be notified as soon as contact hours are finalized.
Yes. All participants can download a certificate of completion immediately upon finishing the course requirements and evaluation.
The course integrates Canadian, U.S., and international clinical guidelines. Lab values are presented in both SI (metric) and conventional (imperial) units where applicable to support clinicians across North America.
No. To provide maximum flexibility for busy clinicians, the course is fully online and on-demand. You can start whenever you’re ready and progress at a pace that fits your professional schedule.
No. While designed through an NP lens, this program is for any clinician in primary care who wants to strengthen their confidence in lab interpretation and clinical decision-making. It is suitable for nurse practitioners, physicians, registered nurses, physician assistants, midwives, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals involved in managing laboratory results.

Feedback from course reviewers

“This course is valuable for both new and experienced NPs. The content is comprehensive, well-organized, and directly relevant to clinical practice. It really helps build confidence with lab interpretation—something that’s so important but often under-taught. I would highly recommend it to any NP looking to strengthen these skills.”
Alix Consorti, MN, NP, MSCP
“This lab interpretation course is an outstanding resource for NPs looking to strengthen their diagnostic reasoning and clinical decision-making. It offers a much more thorough and practical approach to interpreting lab results in everyday practice. This level of lab interpretation isn’t always taught in our training, and this course helps fill that gap.”
Claudia Mariano, MSc, PHCNP
“This course is an excellent review for both NP learners and experienced clinicians. It walks through why certain labs are ordered, what conditions might be causing abnormal results, and how to interpret that. The self-paced format makes it easy to access when needed. I highly recommend it!”
Kathryn Flanigan, MN, NP, MSCP

Ready to feel confident interpreting labs?

Join a community of clinicians building confidence in lab interpretation.
✔ Self-paced: Fully online curriculum you can start anytime.
✔ Expert-led: 7+ hours of video lessons with content created by NPs and leading specialists.
✔ Practice-ready: 200+ pages of downloadable, evidence-based resources.
✔ Case-focused: 80 integrated quiz questions to build clinical reasoning.
✔ Peer support: Private discussion space for collaboration and advice.
✔ Flexible: Study anywhere on your desktop, laptop, or mobile device.
✔ Lifetime access: One-time payment with no subscription or hidden fees.

Register now

Testimonials

“NP Circle is an incredible platform for the busy NP. Not only are their multiple course offerings, but there is a plethora of valuable resources at one's fingertips - including the valuable input from other NP's. Having taken multiple courses from a wide variety of platforms, I can attest that NP Circle is absolutely the best platform out there in regards to content and value for money. The NP Circle Lab Interpretation Course is by far the most valuable course I have ever taken.”
Meagan Beavers, MSN, RN, BA, FNP-C, CEN
Nurse Practitioner - CA, ON
"NP Circle’s Lab Interpretation Course is an amazing resource for both new and seasoned NPs. It’s self-paced with lifetime access and is conveniently delivered in short sections that can be completed at any time as schedules allow. The hard work put into the development of this course is evidenced by the comprehensive content and expert review. This is an outstanding and much needed resource for all NPs contributing to a gap in NP education. Thank you NP Circle!"
Kimberly Harkness, MN, NP-PHC, NP-Adult, GNC(C)
Nurse Practitioner - ON
“As an experienced nurse practitioner, I found this lab interpretation course to be both refreshing and incredibly valuable. The content is concise yet comprehensive, covering everything from basic panels to more complex diagnostics in a clinically relevant way. It’s clear the course was designed with real-world application in mind — bridging the gap between textbook knowledge and what we actually see in practice. Whether you’re newly licensed or have years under your belt, this course sharpens your diagnostic skills and boosts confidence in managing complex lab results. Highly recommend for anyone looking to elevate their clinical acumen.”
Kristen Carey, MN, NP(F)
Nurse Practitioner - SK, BC
"As a new graduate, NP Circle has been a life changer for me. I feel extremely empowered by the community, the trainings, and the knowledge I’ve gained so far. The Lab Interpretation Course has made a huge difference in my confidence and was exactly what I needed. I love the short videos, how the course is divided, and how clear and easy everything is to understand. It’s already changing my day-to-day practice!"
Marianne Leblond, MN, IPSPL
Nurse Practitioner - QC
“This platform has been a great place to connect with other NPs, share insights and engage in continuing education opportunities geared to support NPs in their practice. I'm so glad I decided to become a part of this community. For the first time in my NP career I feel like I have a community and an amazing support network at my fingertips. The Lab Interpretation and Menopause Management courses along with the frequent webinar offerings on varied topics, and real world case discussions others bring to the forum make it easy to keep current and upgrade your knowledge. Thank you for creating this space!”
Marie Loughnane, MN, NP- Adult, MSCP
Nurse Practitioner - ON
"I’m so grateful for NP Circle. This platform has given me the opportunity not only to connect with nurse practitioners across the country, but also to access high-quality, accessible online educational opportunities. The Menopause Management Course was excellent, offering practical, evidence-based tools that I will be able to utilize in my practice when caring for women during this life transition. I look forward to the upcoming Primary Care Review Course. Thank you to Aliya and the NP Circle team for building this great platform together!"
Kathy Rukavina, MN, ANP, NP(F)
Nurse Practitioner - AB
“I am a semi-retired NP providing care to remote communities. Even after 25 years in practice and decades of women’s health conferences, I still find menopause care challenging to navigate at times. The Menopause Management Course has been the perfect enhancement to my knowledge. The content is highly curated, evidence-based, and well organized, with helpful PDFs and charts for each module. The self-paced format with built-in repetition makes it easy to retain key concepts. Concepts like SERMs, TSECs, and KNDy neurons finally clicked once I heard Aliya explain them. Aliya’s gentle voice provides a warm and humble backdrop, and you can feel the respect she has for women, the content, and the learner. Kudos to Aliya, Claudia, and their team. This is most certainly the best course I have ever taken, and I have enough certificates to paper a wall.”
Barb Hood, BScN, NP-PHC
Nurse Practitioner - ON, NWT
“The NP Circle Menopause Management Course opened up so much information and understanding for me regarding the transition for women and how to better treat them. The course was laid out in such a way that each module built on the prior ones which provided a deeper understanding and solidification of knowledge. I feel more prepared to take the Menopause Society Certification Exam after completion of this course. Highly recommend this course!”
Lori Wistling, APRN, FNP-BC, FNP-C
Nurse Practitioner - FL
“The education is excellent. As an NP, I appreciate how practical and clinically focused the Menopause Management Course is. Menopause is an area of women’s health that is often overlooked in traditional training, yet it has a significant impact on patients’ quality of life. This course provides clear, evidence-informed guidance that will meaningfully improve how NPs assess, educate, and support women through this transition.”
Poonam Sehgal, MScN, NP-PHC
Nurse Practitioner - ON
“After completing the Menopause Management Course this past weekend, I was able to immediately apply what I learned in my primary care practice. Just yesterday, I used the principles from the course with 4 different patients at 4 different stages of menopause! I felt confident asking pertinent questions, discussing expectations, and even adjusting hormone therapy routes when requested. As an experienced provider, this felt like a true WIN-WIN! I was able to expand my knowledge while guiding my patients toward the best course of treatment for their lives. I highly recommend NP Circle’s Menopause Management Course!”
Antoinette Riley, DNP, FNP-BC, DCNP
Nurse Practitioner - TX
“NP Circle creates the best educational opportunities I’ve come across in my NP career thus far. Hearing from the industry’s top specialists about tips and tricks on how we can manage many illnesses and conditions that we often refer for in primary care is motivating, empowering and can significantly reduce the volume of referrals sent and wait times for patients.”
Brooke Wagner, MN, NP-PHC
Nurse Practitioner - ON
“This is a wonderful platform. I actually left primary care about a year ago because I was a new grad and felt so overwhelmed by all the knowledge gaps I had. But since I’ve been watching all of these webinars and doing my own studying to fill in my learning gaps, I went back to primary care a couple of months ago. I’m sure you know this, but you are making such a massive difference for NPs!”
Kelsey MacNeil, MN, NP-PHC
Nurse Practitioner - ON
"I am so incredibly grateful and happy that NP Circle exists! I’ve always felt that NPs haven’t previously had structured and high quality resources available to help foster continuing education after graduation, and NP Circle has really superseded my expectations. Every course I’ve taken has left me with a wealth of invaluable and practical knowledge, and the platform is full of high-quality and practical resources! I also love the questions and answers that NPs across the country are able to contribute to. It’s such a helpful learning resource. I can’t thank Aliya enough for creating this space for all of us!"
Andrea Mayne, MN, AGPCNP
Nurse Practitioner - ON
“Could not be happier with my decision to attend the Primary Care Expert Series. For less than $20 per session, you get evidence-based and relevant clinical tools from medical specialists. The majority of the sessions are held after a standard work day and recorded for later viewing as well, which is super convenient. After attending each session, I take away valuable knowledge that will enhance the care that I provide my patients.”
Claire Smith, MN, NP-PHC
Nurse Practitioner - ON
“These are the most important education sessions you can attend as a nurse practitioner in primary health care. You leave with tangible tools to better serve your patients and minimize unnecessary referrals and long specialist wait times. Sessions are organized with sufficient time for questions and some specialist even provide post-session written materials.”
Alexandra Milne, MN, NP-PHC
Nurse Practitioner - ON
"As a recently retired NP, I have experienced firsthand the diverse facets of our profession, from clinical expertise and advocacy, to leadership , scholarship, and research. Now more than ever, it's crucial to be part of a supportive community of like-minded NPs. Being connected in this way empowers us to grow both individually and collectively, enhancing our ability to elevate patient care to new heights."
Claudia Mariano, MSc, PHCNP
Retired Nurse Practitioner - ON
“My experience working with Claudia at NP Circle was incredibly positive. She provided thoughtful guidance, practical career insight, and a supportive approach during a time when I was navigating several major professional decisions, including a significant cross-border move and career transition. Her coaching helped me gain clarity, confidence, and a better understanding of the direction I wanted to move in professionally. Claudia was also exceptionally responsive, approachable, and genuinely invested throughout the process. I always felt supported and able to reach out with concerns. I truly appreciated her encouragement, perspective and ability to tailor the process to my individual goals and circumstances. Thank you, Claudia, for your guidance and support throughout this process.”
Christine Pirwitz, NP
Nurse Practitioner - BC
“I’m so happy this exists! I would highly recommend these events to any primary care provider who is looking to gain knowledge from some of the best specialists and improve their everyday practice. I’ve already been able to implement some of the knowledge I gained from the first session into my practice and prevent an unnecessary referral! 5/5 stars”
Bri Smith, MN, NP-PHC
Nurse Practitioner - ON
"I’m loving being a part of NP Circle! The programs are taught by NPs, MDs, and others who are the best in their field. I’ve had so many great takeaways for my practice. All the resources I need for practice are easily accessible. It’s also been nice to receive updates on relevant news to NP practice and to learn from difficult cases posted by other NPs. Any questions I have related to daily practice or career advancement I can post on there and someone always has helpful advice/information. All in all it’s a great one stop shop for all my NP needs!"
Helen Nicolle, MN, NP
Nurse Practitioner - ON, NB