Final answer:
The creatinine level of 2.7 mg/dL should be reported immediately to the prescriber because it is significantly higher than the normal range for males and females, suggesting a potential for lithium toxicity due to impaired renal function.
b. creatinine 2.7mg/dL
Step-by-step explanation:
The subject question is pertaining to the review of laboratory tests for a patient being treated with lithium carbonate for an acute episode of Bipolar Disorder (BPD). It asks which test result the nurse should immediately report to the prescriber. Among the given options, option 'b. creatinine 2.7mg/dL' is the most concerning result and should be reported immediately. Normally, plasma creatinine levels should be in the range of 0.6-1.2 mg/dL for males and 0.6-0.9 mg/dL for females. A creatinine level of 2.7 mg/dL indicates significantly impaired renal function and may suggest a risk of lithium toxicity as the drug is mainly excreted through the kidneys.
By contrast, the other test results fall within or near the normal reference ranges: ALT (Alanine transaminase) at 30 international units/L is within the normal range, sodium at 132 mEq/L, while slightly low, does not typically constitute an emergency, and potassium at 4 mEq/L is within its normal range of serum K (14-20 mg/100 ml).