The healthcare provider orders laboratory tests following the initiation of treatment for a child diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia. Which laboratory result should the nurse share with the child's family as an indication of improvement?
A) Low hemoglobin
B) Normal platelet count
C) High reticulocyte count
D) Low hematocrit

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A high reticulocyte count indicates that the bone marrow is producing new red blood cells, which is a sign of improvement in iron deficiency anemia. The other options (low hemoglobin, low hematocrit, normal platelet count) do not necessarily indicate improvement and may even indicate continued anemia.

The Healthcare Provider Orders Laboratory Tests Following the Initiation of Treatment