A client with lung cancer has an order for cisplatin (Platinol). Which laboratory result would cause the nurse to be concerned about the administration of this drug? A. White blood cells \(7000 / \mathrm{mm}\) B. Platelet count 700,000 C. Serum creatinine level \(3.0 \mathrm{mg} / \mathrm{dL}\) D. Total LDH 250IU/L

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: Option C, Serum creatinine level \(3.0 \mathrm{mg} / \mathrm{dL}\)

Step by step solution

01

Understanding cisplatin medication and side effects

Cisplatin is a chemotherapy drug used to treat various types of cancers, including lung cancer. It works by damaging the DNA in cancer cells, preventing them from dividing and growing. The drug can cause side effects such as kidney damage, low blood cell counts, and hearing problems. It is crucial to monitor laboratory results to ensure patient safety when administering cisplatin.
02

Assessing option A (White blood cells)

White blood cells (WBC) count is an essential factor in evaluating a patient's response to chemotherapy. A WBC count of 7000/ mm is considered in the normal range (4500-11000/mm), so it should not be a cause for concern when administering cisplatin.
03

Assessing option B (Platelet count)

Platelet count is important because chemotherapy drugs may cause a decrease in platelets, leading to bleeding problems. A platelet count of 700,000 is high (the normal range is 150,000 - 450,000), but the side effect of cisplatin is low platelet count, so this higher count should not be concerning for the administration of cisplatin.
04

Assessing option C (Serum creatinine level)

Serum creatinine is a marker of kidney function. An increased level of serum creatinine indicates that the kidneys are not working effectively, and administering cisplatin can cause more significant kidney damage. A serum creatinine level of \(3.0 \mathrm{mg} / \mathrm{dL}\) is elevated above the normal range (0.8-1.2 mg/dL), which should be concerning before administering cisplatin.
05

Assessing option D (Total LDH 250 IU/L)

Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is an enzyme present in various body tissues, and its level in the blood can indicate cell damage. A total LDH of 250 IU/L is within the normal range (105-333 IU/L), so it does not pose any concerns for administering cisplatin.
06

Concluding the answer

Among the given laboratory results, the only concerning value is option C, Serum creatinine level \(3.0 \mathrm{mg} / \mathrm{dL}\). This high level could indicate kidney damage, posing a risk if cisplatin is administered as it can further damage the kidneys. Therefore, the correct answer is option C.

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