Final answer:
When reviewing laboratory results, a nurse is primarily responsible for identifying potential health issues or abnormalities. The communication of findings to the patient's family and the administering of treatments are context-dependent and may require physician oversight.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse's primary responsibility when reviewing laboratory results in an adolescent's medical record is identifying potential health issues or abnormalities. This is a critical step because adolescents may not always communicate their health concerns, particularly sensitive issues. Nurses must ensure that such findings are noted and any necessary follow-up actions are taken, whether that involves discussing the next steps with the patient, engaging in further diagnostic testing, or coordinating care with other healthcare professionals.
While communicating findings to the patient's family might also be important, it depends on the context, such as the adolescent's age, the nature of the health issue, and the legal requirements concerning patient confidentiality. If a nurse is required to inform parents due to serious health concerns, this should be done carefully and with consideration of the adolescent's privacy and autonomy.
Administering appropriate treatments based on the results may not fall under the nurse's direct responsibilities, as this typically requires physician oversight. However, nurses play a crucial role in executing the treatment plan once established by the physician.