A nurse is reviewing the laboratory values of a client who has COPD. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

A. Tell the client she should discuss this decision with her family.: This is incorrect. While family involvement can be important in decisions regarding treatment, the nurse should respect the client's autonomy and support their right to make decisions about their own care.

B. Discuss alternative treatment methods with the client.: This is incorrect. Since the client has already made the decision to stop dialysis, the nurse should not push alternative treatment methods. The focus should be on supporting the client’s decision rather than presenting options they have chosen not to pursue.

C. Ask the facility chaplain to visit the client.: While a chaplain may provide valuable spiritual support, this is not the first action the nurse should take. It is more important to first support the client’s decision and ensure they are informed about the consequences.

D. Support the client's decision to stop the treatment.: This is correct. The nurse should support the client’s decision and provide care that aligns with the client’s values and wishes. It’s important to respect the client's right to make informed choices about their care, including the decision to discontinue dialysis.

A. BUN 18 mg/dL is incorrect. A BUN (blood urea nitrogen) level of 18 mg/dL is within the normal range (typically 7–20 mg/dL) and does not indicate immediate concern in this context. An elevated BUN could indicate dehydration, but this level is not significantly elevated.

B. Serum creatinine 1.0 mg/dL is incorrect. Serum creatinine levels are also within normal limits for most adults, which is around 0.6–1.2 mg/dL, and this finding does not indicate a problem.

C. Urine output 12 mL/hr is correct. A urine output of 12 mL/hr is low and indicates oliguria, which is a concern in the context of dehydration. The normal urine output for an adult is at least 30 mL/hr. A decrease in urine output suggests that the kidneys are not receiving adequate blood flow, which could indicate severe dehydration and requires immediate attention from the provider.

D. Urine specific gravity 1.020 is incorrect. Urine specific gravity of 1.020 is within the normal range (typically 1.005–1.030) and indicates that the kidneys are concentrating urine appropriately, which is not a concerning finding in this case.