Which is an expected physical assessment finding for an adolescent with a diagnosis of Hodgkin’s disease?

Choice A reason: This is the correct choice. A Hemoglobin A1C level of 6.2% is within the target range for most adults with diabetes and indicates good blood sugar control over the past 2 to 3 months.
Choice B reason: A fasting plasma glucose of 189 mg/dL is above the target range for fasting blood sugar levels, indicating that the client may not be adhering to the diabetic regimen.
Choice C reason: While an HDL of 40 mg/dL is at the lower limit of the normal range, it does not provide direct information about blood sugar control.
Choice D reason: A postprandial plasma glucose of 225 mg/dL is above the target range for after-meal blood sugar levels, suggesting that the client's diabetes is not well-controlled.

The correct answer is: c. In an emergency, a court order can be obtained for the patient to receive blood transfusions.

Choice A: The patient can only receive blood that has been donated by family members.

Jehovah’s Witnesses refuse blood transfusions, including those from family members, due to their religious beliefs. They believe that both the Old and New Testaments command them to abstain from blood (Genesis 9:4; Leviticus 17:10; Deuteronomy 12:23; Acts 15:28, 29). Therefore, this option is incorrect.

Choice B: Under no circumstances will the patient receive blood products.

While Jehovah’s Witnesses generally refuse blood transfusions, there are exceptional circumstances where medical professionals can seek a court order to administer blood transfusions, especially in life-threatening situations involving minors. Thus, this statement is not entirely accurate.

Choice C: In an emergency, a court order can be obtained for the patient to receive blood transfusions.

In life-threatening emergencies, especially involving minors, courts can intervene and issue orders to administer necessary medical treatments, including blood transfusions, despite parental objections based on religious beliefs. This ensures the child’s right to life and health is protected. Therefore, this is the correct answer.

Choice D: The patient can receive volume expanders.

Volume expanders can be used to increase blood volume and maintain circulation, but they do not carry oxygen or replace lost blood cells. While they are an option for managing blood loss, they are not a substitute for blood transfusions in severe cases of anemia or blood loss, which are common in leukemia patients. Thus, this option is not entirely correct.