Final answer:
The laboratory findings for AKI include elevated BUN levels and reduced urine output. BUN at 30 mg/dL and urine output of 40mL in past 3 hours are potential indicators of AKI. Normal potassium and serum calcium levels do not typically indicate AKI.
Step-by-step explanation:
A nurse reviewing the laboratory reports of a client with acute kidney injury (AKI) should expect certain abnormal findings that are indicative of the injury. These include elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels, as well as disturbances in urine output and electrolyte balances.
- BUN 30 mg/dL: This is on the higher end of the normal range, which is 8-20 mg/dL. A high BUN level may indicate impaired kidney function, which is expected in AKI.
- Urine output of 40mL in past 3hr: This is significantly low, considering the expected output should be at least 0.5 mL/kg/hr. For an average adult, this means at least 180 mL in 3 hours, which suggests kidney dysfunction.
- Potassium 3.6 mEq/L: This value is within the normal range, which is 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L, so it is not indicative of AKI.
- Serum calcium 9.8 mg/dL: This level is within the normal range of 8.5 to 10.2 mg/dL, so it wouldn't typically be related to AKI.
- Hematocrit 30%: This may indicate anemia, which can be associated with chronic kidney disease, but is not specific for AKI.