ATI Medsurg Proctored Final Exam Related

Review ATI Medsurg Proctored Final Exam related questions and content

A nurse is reviewing laboratory values for a client who has systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Which of the following values should give the nurse the best indication of the client's renal function?

  • A. Serum creatinine
  • B. Serum potassium
  • C. White blood cell count
  • D. Hemoglobin level
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Serum creatinine. Creatinine is a waste product produced by muscles and filtered out by the kidneys. In clients with SLE, renal involvement is common. Elevated serum creatinine levels indicate impaired renal function, as the kidneys are not effectively filtering out waste products. Monitoring serum creatinine levels helps assess renal function and detect kidney damage early.
Choices B, C, D, and E are incorrect as they do not directly reflect renal function. Serum potassium levels (B) are more indicative of electrolyte balance, white blood cell count (C) indicates immune response, and hemoglobin level (D) reflects oxygen-carrying capacity.