The nurse is reviewing laboratory results for a patient scheduled for a cholecystectomy. Which result is most important for the nurse to report to the surgeon?

Choice A rationale A blood glucose level of 90 mg/dL (5 mmol/L) is within the normal range and would not need to be reported to the surgeon. Choice B rationale A serum creatinine level of 5 mg/dL (442 µmol/L) is significantly elevated, indicating impaired kidney function. This is a critical lab value that should be reported to the surgeon immediately, as it could impact the patient’s ability to safely undergo surgery and recover postoperatively. Choice C rationale A hemoglobin level of 13 g/dL (130 g/L) is within the normal range and would not need to be reported to the surgeon. Choice D rationale A potassium level of 4 mEq/L (4 mmol/L) is within the normal range and would not need to be reported to the surgeon.