What hematocrit level should a nurse report as an indication of anemia in a pregnant client at 32 weeks of gestation?

In pregnancy, various physiological changes occur, particularly concerning blood volume and hemoconcentration. During pregnancy, a woman's blood volume increases significantly, which can lead to dilute levels of red blood cells, commonly referred to as "physiologic anemia." Typically, a hematocrit level of less than 33% is indicative of anemia in pregnant individuals.

At 32 weeks of gestation, a hematocrit level of 30% suggests a decreased concentration of red blood cells, signaling anemia. This condition can be significant because it may affect oxygen delivery to both the mother and the developing fetus, potentially leading to complications such as fatigue in the mother and poor fetal growth or development.

Other hematocrit levels presented are not indicative of anemia; for instance, 34% and 36% are within or above the normal range for a pregnant woman at this stage, and 40% is considered high due to hemodilution effects that generally occur in pregnancy. Therefore, the nurse should report a hematocrit level of 30% as it clearly meets the criteria for anemia that warrants further evaluation and potential intervention.