Final answer:
The practical nurse should report any laboratory value outside the normal range that poses an immediate risk to the client's health.
Step-by-step explanation:
The practical nurse should report an abnormal laboratory value immediately to the healthcare provider. One example of a value that would require immediate reporting is a critically low blood sugar level, known as hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia can quickly lead to serious complications and requires urgent medical attention to prevent harm to the client.
Another example would be a critically high potassium level, called hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia can disrupt normal heart function and potentially lead to cardiac arrest. Therefore, it is vital for the practical nurse to notify the healthcare provider promptly for appropriate intervention.
In summary, any laboratory value that falls outside the normal range and has the potential to cause immediate harm to the client should be reported immediately to the healthcare provider by the practical nurse.