Which urine laboratory result in an adolescent should prompt a nurse to notify the provider?

A positive ketones result in an adolescent's urine is significant because it may indicate that the body is utilizing fat for energy instead of carbohydrates, which can occur in several clinical scenarios. One common situation is uncontrolled diabetes, particularly in adolescents with type 1 diabetes, where high levels of ketones can lead to a dangerous condition known as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA is a medical emergency characterized by hyperglycemia, dehydration, and metabolic acidosis, requiring prompt intervention.

In contrast, glucose being negative is expected in a healthy individual, while a trace amount of protein may not be clinically significant in adolescents, as it can result from various benign conditions or even physical activity. A urine pH of 7.0 is within the normal range and typically does not require urgent medical attention. Thus, the presence of ketones serves as a critical indicator that warrants immediate communication with the healthcare provider to assess potential underlying issues and initiate timely management.