Question

The nurse is reviewing the lab reports on several clients. Which one should be reported to the physician immediately?

A serum creatinine of 5.2mg/dL in a client with chronic renal failure
A positive C reactive protein in a client with rheumatic fever
A hematocrit of 52% in a client with gastroenteritis
A white cell count of 2,200cu/mm in a client taking Dilantin (phenytoin)

Answer 1

The lab report that should be reported to the physician immediately is a serum creatinine of 5.2mg/dL in a client with chronic renal failure.

Step-by-step explanation:

The lab report that should be reported to the physician immediately is the serum creatinine of 5.2mg/dL in a client with chronic renal failure.

A serum creatinine level of 5.2mg/dL indicates a significant impairment of kidney function. In a client with chronic renal failure, this elevated creatinine level indicates worsening kidney dysfunction and the need for immediate medical intervention.

Chronic renal failure is a condition where the kidneys gradually lose their ability to function properly. The elevation in serum creatinine suggests that the client's kidneys are not effectively filtering waste products from the blood, which can lead to a build-up of toxins and further complications if not addressed promptly.