A client who has had diabetes for the past 10 years has an elevated blood pressure and bilateral ankle edema. Which laboratory result should the nurse report to the healthcare provider?

Rationale: A. Liver function: Liver function tests are important for overall health but are not directly indicated by the client’s symptoms of hypertension and bilateral ankle edema. B. Lipoprotein panel: Lipid levels are relevant for cardiovascular risk management in diabetes but do not directly explain the acute signs of edema and elevated blood pressure. C. Kidney function: Hypertension, long-standing diabetes, and bilateral ankle edema suggest possible diabetic nephropathy or kidney impairment. Laboratory results such as elevated serum creatinine or BUN would warrant immediate reporting and further evaluation. D. Serum glucose: Elevated glucose indicates diabetes control status but does not directly explain edema or hypertension. While important, it is not the most urgent laboratory finding in this context.