Question

Which laboratory result would concern the nurse caring for a client who is receiving furosemide (Lasix)? A. Potassium level of \(2.5\) B. Sodium level of 140 C. Glucose level of 110 D. Calcium level of 8

Short answer

Answer: A. Potassium level of 2.5 mmol/L

Step-by-step solution

Identify the normal ranges for the given laboratory results

In this step, we need to find out the normal ranges for the given lab results which are potassium, sodium, glucose, and calcium levels. Normal ranges for the respective lab results: - Potassium: 3.5 - 5.0 mmol/L - Sodium: 135 - 145 mmol/L - Glucose: 70 - 110 mg/dL - Calcium: 8.5 - 10.2 mg/dL

Compare the given values to their normal ranges

In this step, we compare the provided lab results from options A, B, C and D with their normal ranges. A. Potassium level of 2.5 mmol/L B. Sodium level of 140 mmol/L C. Glucose level of 110 mg/dL D. Calcium level of 8 mg/dL Comparing these values to the normal ranges, we find: - A: Low potassium level (2.5 mmol/L) - B: Normal sodium level (140 mmol/L) - C: Normal glucose level (110 mg/dL) - D: Slightly low calcium level (8 mg/dL)

Determine the concerning laboratory result

Based on the comparison we did in Step 2, we can see that the potassium level of 2.5 mmol/L (Option A) is significantly below the normal range (3.5 - 5.0 mmol/L). Since furosemide is a diuretic that can cause electrolyte imbalances, particularly affecting potassium levels, the nurse should be concerned about this low potassium level.

Conclusion

The concerning laboratory result for a nurse caring for a client receiving furosemide (Lasix) is a potassium level of 2.5 mmol/L, which is Option A.