The patient is admitted with shortness of breath and chest discomfort. Which laboratory value could account for the patient's symptoms?
a. Red blood cell count of 5.0 million/mm3
b. Hemoglobin level of 8.0 g/100 mL
c. Hematocrit level of 45%
d. Pulse oximetry of 95%
ANS: B
The concentration of hemoglobin reflects the patient's capacity to carry oxygen, which if low can lead to shortness of breath and chest discomfort. Normal hemoglobin levels range from 14 to 18 g/100 mL in males and from 12 to 16 g/100 mL in females. Hemoglobin of 8.0 is low and indicates a decreased ability to deliver oxygen to meet bodily needs. All other values in the selection are considered normal.
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