Which laboratory value in a patient receiving fludrocortisone acetate requires immediate action?

In patients receiving fludrocortisone acetate, evaluating electrolyte levels is crucial due to the medication’s mineralocorticoid effects, which can lead to alterations in sodium and potassium levels. Fludrocortisone typically promotes sodium retention and potassium excretion. An elevated sodium level of 150 mEq/L indicates hypernatremia, which can have significant clinical implications, including fluid retention, increased blood pressure, and potential cardiovascular complications.

In this context, it's essential to closely monitor sodium levels and take immediate action if they rise too high. Hypernatremia can lead to cellular dehydration, which in turn may cause neurological issues due to shifts in water balance. Depending on the patient’s overall clinical picture, such high sodium levels might necessitate prompt intervention to avoid serious consequences.

Other laboratory values, while important, do not indicate the same level of urgency. For instance, potassium levels at 3.5 mEq/L are typically within a normal range, chloride levels at 97 mEq/L are also generally acceptable, and while glucose at 180 mg/dL might warrant monitoring, it is not an immediate risk compared to hypernatremia.