The nurse is reviewing the laboratory results for a client who is scheduled for a cholecystectomy. Which result is most important for the nurse to report to the surgeon? Reference Range Glucose [74 to 106 mg/dL (4.1 to 5.9 mmol/L)] Creatine [0.5-1.1 mg/dL (44 to 97 μmol/L)] Potassium (3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L (3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L)] Hemoglobin [16 to 18 g/dL (160 to 180 g/L)]
Explanation & Rationale
A. A blood glucose level of 90 mg/dL is within the normal reference range of 74 to 106 mg/dL, so it is not a concern. B. A potassium level of 4 mEq/L is also within the normal reference range of 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L, so it does not need to be reported. C. Although the hemoglobin level of 13 g/dL is below the reference range provided, it is not critically low and may not be urgent unless the patient has symptoms of anemia or other related issues. D. A serum creatinine level of 5 mg/dL is significantly higher than the normal reference range of 0.5 to 1.1 mg/dL. This indicates renal impairment, which could affect the patient's ability to clear medications used during surgery and could lead to postoperative complications. Therefore, it is crucial to report this finding to the surgeon immediately.