Which lab result should the nurse report for a patient receiving vancomycin?

In patients receiving vancomycin, monitoring renal function is critical due to vancomycin's potential nephrotoxic effects. An elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level can indicate impaired kidney function, which is particularly concerning with this medication. A BUN level of 30 mg/dL is above the normal range, suggesting possible renal impairment, which could lead to increased toxicity from vancomycin.

It's important for the nurse to report this finding because timely intervention may prevent further kidney damage and ensure that the medication is administered safely. Renal function needs to be assessed regularly in patients on vancomycin, and any significant changes, such as elevated BUN, should prompt further investigation and potential adjustment of the patient's treatment plan.

The other lab results presented do not indicate immediate concerns that warrant reporting. A normal white blood cell count of 6000/mm³ suggests no current infection or inflammatory process that requires attention, while normal creatinine levels (1.0 mg/dL) imply adequate kidney function. A hematocrit of 40% also falls within a normal range, indicating no anemia or related issues. Therefore, the elevated BUN level stands out as the most critical result to report in the context of van