What abnormal finding should a nurse expect in the urinalysis of a client with acute glomerulonephritis?

In a client with acute glomerulonephritis, the presence of protein in the urine is a significant abnormal finding. This condition involves inflammation of the glomeruli in the kidneys, which leads to increased permeability of the glomerular membrane. As a result, larger molecules, such as proteins, are allowed to pass into the urine, which typically should not contain substantial amounts of protein.

The detection of proteinuria, or protein in the urine, is a hallmark sign of glomerular injury, making it a critical indicator in diagnosing and monitoring acute glomerulonephritis. The amount and type of protein can provide insights into the severity and nature of the kidney damage.

While the presence of white blood cells, blood, and glucose in the urine may also be found in various conditions or infections, the hallmark for glomerulonephritis specifically is the significant protein content due to the underlying pathology affecting the glomeruli. Thus, the correct response focuses on the presence of protein as a primary abnormal finding in urine analysis for this condition.