The nurse is reviewing laboratory results for a client. Which diagnost

The nurse is reviewing laboratory results for a client. Which diagnostic study determines how well blood glucose levels have been controlled in the client?

1. Blood chemistry
2. Capillary blood glucose
3. Hemoglobin A1c
4. Serum electrolytes

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 3
Rationale 1: A blood chemistry is a number of tests performed on blood serum. It can include LDH, CK, and AST.
Rationale 2: The capillary blood glucose is used to determine or monitor blood glucose levels of clients at one point in time but not over time.
Rationale 3: The glycosylated hemoglobin or hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is a measurement of blood glucose that is bound to hemoglobin. Hemoglobin A1c is a reflection of how well blood glucose levels have been controlled.
Rationale 4: Serum electrolytes are often routinely ordered for any client admitted to a hospital as a screening test for electrolyte and acid–base imbalances. The most commonly ordered serum tests are for sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate ions.