The nurse is caring for a client with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) who is receiving a nucleoside/nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI). The client reports experiencing malaise, fatigue, and anorexia. The nurse observes the client's respirations are 30 breaths/minute. Which laboratory result is most important for the nurse to review?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Serum amylase levels: Serum amylase is helpful in detecting pancreatitis but is not the most immediate concern with symptoms of fatigue, anorexia, and tachypnea. A CBC is more relevant to evaluate possible anemia or infection. B. Complete blood count: A CBC is crucial to assess for anemia, infection, or other hematologic issues, which could be causing the client's malaise, fatigue, and tachypnea. This is the most important test to guide further treatment. C. Arterial blood gases: While useful for assessing respiratory function, ABG testing is not the first priority here. The client's symptoms suggest a more likely hematologic issue that would be better assessed with a CBC. D. Liver function tests: Liver function tests are important but not the most urgent in this case. The CBC provides a broader view of the client's condition and helps identify the underlying cause of the symptoms.