A client reports experiencing numbness and ngling in the extremies. Which of the client's serum laboratory values should the praccal nurse (PN) priorize reporng to the healthcare provider?

When a client reports experiencing numbness and ngling in the extremies, it is crucial for the praccal nurse (PN) to prioritise reporting the client's electrolyte levels to the healthcare provider. Electrolytes are essential minerals that help maintain the balance of fluids in the body and enable proper nerve and muscle function. Imbalances in electrolyte levels can lead to neurological symptoms, including numbness and ngling.

Opons a, b, and d are not the correct priories to report in this situation:

a) Hematocrit: Hematocrit measures the proportion of red blood cells in the blood. While abnormalies in hematocrit can indicate certain conditions, such as anaemia, it is not directly associated with numbness and ngling in the extremes.

b) Albumin and protein levels: Albumin and protein levels are important for assessing nutritional status and liver function. While low levels of protein can contribute to various health issues, they are not the primary concern when a client experiences numbness and ngling in the extremities.

d) White blood cell count (WBC): WBC count is used to evaluate the immune system's response to infection or inflammation. While infections or inflammatory conditions can cause neurological symptoms, such as ngling, it is not the primary concern in this specific case of numbness and ngling.

Therefore, the most appropriate laboratory value to prioritise reporting in this scenario is the client's electrolyte levels, as imbalances can directly contribute to the reported symptoms and may require prompt intervention.

Choice A reason: Plantar flexion is not a test that the nurse uses to gain more information about this client's gait because it is a movement of the foot that points the toes downward, not a measure of balance or coordination.

Choice B reason: Romberg is a test that the nurse uses to gain more information about this client's gait because it is a measure of balance and proprioception, which are often impaired in ataxiA. The test involves asking the client to stand with their feet together and arms at their sides, first with their eyes open and then with their eyes closed, while observing for swaying or fallinG.

Choice C reason: Achilles reflex is not a test that the nurse uses to gain more information about this client's gait because it is a measure of the reflex response of the calf muscle when the Achilles tendon is tapped, not a measure of balance or coordination.

Choice D reason: Patellar reflex is not a test that the nurse uses to gain more information about this client's gait because it is a measure of the reflex response of the quadriceps muscle when the patellar tendon is tapped, not a measure of balance or coordination.