A nurse is caring for a client who has leukemia. Which of the following findings is the highest priority for the nurse to report to the provider?

Choice A reason: Glucocorticoids are anti-inflammatory drugs that can increase blood glucose levels and worsen diabetes mellitus, which is a risk factor for stroke.

Choice B reason: HbA1c is a measure of average blood glucose levels over the past three months. A higher HbA1c level indicates poor glycemic control and increases the risk for stroke. The target HbA1c level for most people with diabetes mellitus is less than 7 percent.

Choice C reason: Having a high total cholesterol level is a risk factor for stroke, as it can lead to atherosclerosis and plaque formation in the blood vessels. The target total cholesterol level for most people is less than 200 mg/dL.

Choice D reason: Losing excess weight can lower blood pressure, improve blood glucose levels, and reduce inflammation, which are all beneficial for preventing stroke.

Choice A: This is incorrect. The client having difficulty reading large print indicates a need for an ophthalmology referral, not an occupational therapy referral. An ophthalmologist can assess and treat vision problems caused by stroke.

Choice B: This is incorrect. The client coughing while drinking from a straw indicates a need for a speech therapy referral, not an occupational therapy referral. A speech therapist can assess and treat swallowing problems caused by stroke.

Choice C: This is incorrect. The client being unable to bear her full weight while walking indicates a need for a physical therapy referral, not an occupational therapy referral. A physical therapist can assess and treat mobility problems caused by stroke.

Choice D: This is correct. The client becoming exhausted after performing activities of daily living indicates a need for an occupational therapy referral. An occupational therapist can assess and treat functional problems caused by stroke, such as fatigue, self-care, cognition, and leisure activities.