The nurse is reviewing the morning laboratory results for the client with cancer. What result requires immediate intervention?

Choice A rationale A serum calcium level of 9.2 mg/dL is within the normal adult range, which is typically 8.5 to 10.5 mg/dL. This value does not indicate an immediate life-threatening electrolyte imbalance, as it is neither significantly hypercalcemic nor hypocalcemic, therefore it does not require immediate intervention. Choice B rationale A platelet level of 250,000/mm is within the normal adult range, which is generally 150,000 to 450,000/mm. This value indicates an adequate number of platelets for normal clotting function and does not suggest an increased risk of bleeding or a need for immediate intervention. Choice C rationale A hemoglobin level of 14.5 g/dL is within or slightly above the normal adult male range (13.5 to 17.5 g/dL) or female range (12.0 to 15.5 g/dL). This value is completely normal and indicates no signs of anemia, requiring no urgent or immediate action from the nurse. Choice D rationale A white blood cell (WBC) count of 3,000 cells/uL (or 3.0 × 109/L) is below the normal adult range of 4,500 to 11,000 cells/uL. This is indicative of leukopenia, placing the client at a significantly increased risk for life-threatening infection, which necessitates immediate intervention such as initiating neutropenic precautions and notifying the healthcare provider.