Asked by Makayla Nusbaum on May 14, 2024

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The nurse receives the patient's most recent blood work results. Which laboratory value is of greatest concern?

A) Sodium of 145 mEq/L
B) Calcium of 15.5 mg/dL
C) Potassium of 3.5 mEq/L
D) Chloride of 100 mEq/L

Laboratory Value

A numerical result obtained from a laboratory test that measures specific markers in blood, urine, or other body fluids, used to assess health or diagnose conditions.

Calcium

A chemical element and a vital mineral in the human body necessary for bone health, muscle function, and nerve signaling.

Sodium

An essential mineral that plays crucial roles in the body, including maintaining normal fluid balance and supporting nerve and muscle function.

  • Recognize the importance of electrolytes for physiological processes and evaluate disturbances in their equilibrium.
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Martha StellmachMay 21, 2024
Final Answer :
B
Explanation :
Normal calcium range is 8.4 to 10.5 mg/dL; therefore, a value of 15.5 mg/dL is abnormally high and of concern. The rest of the laboratory values are within their normal ranges: sodium 136 to 145 mEq/L; potassium 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L; and chloride 98 to 106 mEq/L.