Question

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

Answer 1

The nurse should report a Hgb level of 8 g/dL to the provider.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should report the laboratory value of Hgb 8 g/dL to the provider. Hemoglobin (Hgb) is an important component of red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. A low Hgb level indicates anemia, which can be a concern for a postoperative patient. The nurse should inform the provider so that appropriate interventions can be initiated to address the low Hgb level.