A client whose hemoglobin level was 60gm/L 2 days ago has received parenteral epoetin alfa. A hemoglobin level has just been drawn to evaluate therapy. The nurse would consider which hemoglobin lab result as most problematic?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A hemoglobin level of 130-140 gm/L would be the most problematic as it indicates an excessive response to epoetin alfa therapy, which could increase the risk of adverse effects such as thromboembolism and hypertension. The goal of epoetin alfa therapy is to gradually increase hemoglobin levels to a target range of 90-100 gm/L, as higher levels may be associated with increased mortality in some patient populations. Hemoglobin levels of 70-80 gm/L, 90-100 gm/L, and 110-120 gm/L would be within the expected range of response to therapy.

A Client Whose Hemoglobin Level Was 60gm/L 2 Days Ago