The nurse is caring for a client who is taking warfarin and is scheduled for a cholecystectomy. Which laboratory result should the nurse report to the healthcare provider (HCP)? Reference Ranges: Hemoglobin (Hgb) [14 to 18 g/dL (140 to 180 g/L)] White Blood Cell (WBC) [5,000 to 10,000/mm3 (5 to 10 x 109/L)] International normalized ratio (INR) [0.8 to 1.1] Potassium [3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L (3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L)]

A. Hemoglobin 14 g/dL (140 g/L): This value is within the normal reference range and indicates adequate oxygen-carrying capacity. It does not pose a concern for surgery and does not require reporting to the healthcare provider. B. Potassium of 4.9 mEq/L (4.9 mmol/L): Potassium is within the normal range of 3.5–5.0 mEq/L, indicating balanced electrolyte status. This level does not contraindicate surgery or require immediate intervention. C. International normalized ratio of 1.6: Warfarin therapy is monitored via INR, and a value above the normal reference range (0.8–1.1) indicates increased anticoagulation and a higher risk of bleeding. For a client scheduled for surgery, an elevated INR is significant because it increases the likelihood of perioperative hemorrhage. The nurse should report this to the healthcare provider so anticoagulation can be managed appropriately before the procedure. D. White blood cells 10,000/mm3 (10 x 10⁹/L): This value is at the upper limit of normal and may reflect a mild immune response or be normal for the client. It does not indicate a contraindication for surgery and does not require urgent reporting.