Which laboratory result should a nurse report prior to a client’s surgery?

Prior to surgery, it is crucial for healthcare providers to closely monitor a patient's coagulation status to prevent excessive bleeding during and after the procedure. An International Normalized Ratio (INR) of 3.5 indicates a significantly elevated risk for bleeding, as it suggests that the blood is less likely to clot properly. Normal INR values typically range from 0.8 to 1.1 for individuals not on anticoagulant therapy, and a value of 3.5 could indicate that the client is receiving anticoagulant medication or has an underlying bleeding disorder.

Since surgical procedures involve incisions and manipulations that can lead to blood loss, reporting an INR of 3.5 is critical for patient safety. This result would necessitate further evaluation and potentially delay the surgery until the patient's coagulation levels are brought back to a safer range. This proactive approach ensures that the surgical team can take necessary precautions or interventions to minimize the risk of hemorrhage during the operation.

Other lab results, such as the HbA1c or hematocrit levels, may be important but do not pose an immediate risk of perioperative complications in the same way that a high INR does. Reporting the elevated INR is essential for making informed decisions about proceeding with the