The nurse is reviewing the laboratory findings for a 34-year-old woman who is scheduled for a Schilling's test for B12 deficiency anemia. Which result should the nurse report immediately to the primary care provider?
Positive pregnancy test
Hemoglobin 9.5 g/dL and Hematocrit 32%
Glycosylated Hemoglobin (A1c) 7.5%
Serum Cholesterol 237 mg/dL
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason:
A positive pregnancy test is crucial information that must be reported immediately as it has significant implications for the patient's health and treatment options. Pregnancy can impact the results of a Schilling's test, which is used to diagnose B12 deficiency anemia, as pregnancy itself can cause changes in B12 metabolism. Therefore, the healthcare provider must be informed to adjust the diagnostic approach and ensure the safety of both the mother and the developing fetus.
Choice B Reason:
While a hemoglobin level of 9.5 g/dL is below the normal range for adult females (11.6 to 15 g/dL) and a hematocrit of 32% is at the lower end of the normal range (36% to 44%)[^10^], these results are consistent with anemia but are not as immediately critical as a positive pregnancy test in the context of a Schilling's test.
Choice C Reason:
A glycosylated hemoglobin (A1c) level of 7.5% is above the normal range (4% to 5.9%), indicating poor blood sugar control over the past two to three months, which could suggest diabetes or prediabetes. However, this is not as urgent as a positive pregnancy test when considering the administration of a Schilling's test.
Choice D Reason:
A serum cholesterol level of 237 mg/dL is considered borderline high (200 to 239 mg/dL), which may increase the risk of heart disease over time. However, this does not require immediate reporting in the context of a Schilling's test for B12 deficiency anemia as compared to a positive pregnancy test.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Using accessory muscles while breathing is a sign of respiratory distress and indicates that the client is working harder to breathe. This is not a desired outcome of treatment and suggests that the asthma exacerbation is not under control.
Choice B Reason:
The ability to answer questions in full sentences suggests that the client's airway is not severely obstructed, which is a positive sign of effective asthma treatment. When asthma is well-controlled, individuals should not experience significant shortness of breath that limits their ability to speak.
Choice C Reason:
Diminished breath sounds can be a sign of severe airway obstruction and are not indicative of effective asthma treatment. Ideally, lung auscultation should reveal clear breath sounds without wheezing, indicating good air movement throughout the lungs.
Choice D Reason:
Restlessness and anxiety can be symptoms of hypoxia, a condition where the body or a region of the body is deprived of adequate oxygen supply. This is not a sign of effective asthma treatment and may indicate that the client's asthma is not well-managed.

Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason
Metoprolol, a beta-blocker, can cause fluid retention, which may lead to swelling in the ankles. However, this is not a common side effect and is not typically included as a standard warning for patients starting on metoprolol. Patients should be aware of this potential side effect but also understand that it may not occur.
Choice B Reason
Patients should not stop taking metoprolol abruptly, especially if they experience fatigue, which can be a common side effect. Abrupt cessation can lead to rebound hypertension or angina. Instead, patients should consult their healthcare provider if they experience significant fatigue that impacts their daily activities.
Choice C Reason
Checking the pulse is an important self-monitoring measure for patients on metoprolol. This medication can slow the heart rate, and patients should be instructed on how to check their pulse and what to do if it falls below a certain rate, as advised by their healthcare provider.
Choice D Reason
While staying hydrated is generally good advice, there is no specific need to drink plenty of fluids related to the use of metoprolol for angina pectoris. Patients should follow normal hydration guidelines unless otherwise directed by their healthcare provider.
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