Question

A nurse is reviewing the prenatal laboratory results for a client who is at 12 weeks of gestation following an initial prenatal visit. Which of the following laboratory findings should the nurse report to the provider?

a) Elevated levels of leukocytes.
b) Decreased iron levels.
c) Increased red blood cell count.
d) Elevated platelet count.

Answer 1

The nurse should report the elevated levels of leukocytes to the medical provider as it can indicate an underlying infection or inflammation during pregnancy.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should report the elevated levels of leukocytes to the medical provider. Leukocytes, also known as white blood cells, play a crucial role in the body's immune response and their elevated levels can indicate an underlying infection or inflammation.

During pregnancy, the immune system is downregulated, making pregnant individuals more vulnerable to infections. Elevated leukocyte levels at 12 weeks of gestation could be a sign of an ongoing infection, which requires further evaluation and management by the medical provider.