Which laboratory data is important to communicate to the health care provider for a patient who is taking methotrexate (Rheumatrex) to treat rheumatoid arthritis?
a. The blood glucose is 90 mg/dL.
b. The rheumatoid factor is positive.
c. The white blood cell (WBC) count is 1500/µL.
d. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate is elevated.
ANS: C
Bone marrow suppression is a possible side effect of methotrexate, and the patient's low WBC count places the patient at high risk for infection. The elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate and positive rheumatoid factor are expected in rheumatoid arthritis. The blood glucose is normal.
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