Pediatric ATI Practice Exam

Which lab result should the nurse report immediately in a pediatric unit?

1. White blood cell count of 12,000

2. Sickle cell anemia and a urine specific gravity of 1.030

3. Hemoglobin levels of 10 g/dL

4. Platelet count of 150,000

The correct answer is: Sickle cell anemia and a urine specific gravity of 1.030

The situation with sickle cell anemia, coupled with a urine specific gravity of 1.030, is significant and requires immediate attention. Sickle cell anemia can lead to a variety of complications, including vaso-occlusive crises, which can cause severe pain and require prompt management. The elevated urine specific gravity indicates potential dehydration, which can exacerbate the sickle cell disease and lead to more serious complications such as acute chest syndrome or splenic sequestration. In pediatric patients with sickle cell anemia, hydration status is crucial because dehydration can trigger painful crises. Therefore, recognizing a urine specific gravity that suggests a concentrated urine (indicating potential dehydration) is critical. This lab result should be reported quickly so appropriate interventions can be implemented. In contrast, the other lab values, though they may warrant monitoring or further evaluation, typically do not indicate an immediate danger to the patient in the same way that the combination of sickle cell disease and the high urine specific gravity does.