Question

a nurse is caring for a client who is about to begin taking folic acid to treat megaloblastic anemia. the nurse should monitor which of the following laboratory values to determine therapeutic effectiveness?

• amylase level
• reticulocyte count
• c - reactive protein
• creatinine clearance

Explanation:

• Amylase level: Measures pancreatic function, not relevant to megaloblastic anemia treatment monitoring.
• Reticulocyte count: Reticulocytes are immature red blood cells. In megaloblastic anemia (due to folic acid or vitamin B12 deficiency), when folic acid is given, the bone marrow responds by producing more red blood cells. Reticulocyte count increases as a sign of effective treatment (erythropoiesis stimulation).
• C - reactive protein: An acute - phase reactant indicating inflammation, not specific to megaloblastic anemia treatment response.
• Creatinine clearance: Assesses kidney function, not related to the therapeutic response of folic acid in megaloblastic anemia.

Answer:

B. Reticulocyte count