A nurse is caring for a female client who is receiving intravenous gentamicin. Which of the following laboratory values is the priority to report to the provider?

A. Hgb 11.5 g/dL (12 to 16 g/dL): While this hemoglobin level is slightly below normal, it is not an immediate priority compared to other more concerning values. Anemia could be addressed later with appropriate interventions but is not life-threatening in this case. B. Creatinine 3.2 mg/dL (0.5 to 1.1 mg/dL): A creatinine level of 3.2 mg/dL is significantly elevated and indicates possible kidney dysfunction or acute kidney injury. Gentamicin is known to be nephrotoxic, and this level requires prompt attention to prevent further renal damage. C. Sodium 146 mEq/L (136 to 145 mEq/L): Sodium levels are only slightly elevated and do not represent an immediate concern unless the client has symptoms of hypernatremia (e.g., confusion, seizures). While monitoring is required, it is not as urgent as the creatinine. D. WBC count 12,000/mm3 (5,000 to 10,000/mm3): A WBC count of 12,000/mm3 is mildly elevated, which could suggest an infection or inflammation. However, this is not the priority compared to the kidney function, which could be compromised by gentamicin therapy.