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A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a total hip arthroplasty. which of the following laboratory values should the nurse report to the provider?

a. potassium 4 mEq/L
b. WBC count 10,000/mm3
c. Hct 45%
d. Hgb 8 g/dL

User Kalisky
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

The laboratory value to report to the provider is d. Hemoglobin (Hgb) 8 g/dL. This value indicates anemia post-surgery, which needs attention. Other values given are within normal limits.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a total hip arthroplasty and must report abnormal laboratory values to the provider. Option d. Hemoglobin (Hgb) 8 g/dL is the laboratory value that should be reported. The normal range for Hgb in adults is typically around 12 to 16 g/dL for women and 14 to 18 g/dL for men. A value of 8 g/dL indicates anemia, which can be a common issue after surgery due to blood loss and can impair oxygen delivery to tissues. Monitoring and potentially treating this low hemoglobin is crucial for the patient's recovery. The other values provided, including potassium 4 mEq/L, WBC count 10,000/mm³, and hematocrit (Hct) 45%, are within normal limits for most adults and would not typically necessitate concern.

User Remmy
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