A nurse is providing dietary teaching to a client about sources of protein. The nurse should identify which of the following foods are complete proteins?

Choice A reason: Potassium 3.5 mEq/L is not a finding that indicates fluid volume deficit because it is within the normal range, which is 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L. Potassium is an electrolyte that regulates nerve and muscle function, acid-base balance, and fluid balance. Potassium level can be affected by various factors, such as diet, medication, kidney function, and dehydration.

Choice B reason: Sodium 145 mEq/L is not a finding that indicates fluid volume deficit because it is within the normal range, which is 136 to 145 mEq/L. Sodium is an electrolyte that regulates blood pressure, blood volume, and fluid balance. Sodium level can be affected by various factors, such as diet, medication, kidney function, and fluid loss.

Choice C reason: Hematocrit 53% is a finding that indicates fluid volume deficit because it is above the normal range, which is 38 to 50% for men and 34 to 46% for women. Hematocrit is the percentage of red blood cells in the total blood volume. Hematocrit level can increase due to dehydration, which causes hemoconcentration or increased blood viscosity.

Choice D reason: HbA1c 5% is not a finding that indicates fluid volume deficit because it is within the normal range, which is less than 5.7%. HbA1c is the percentage of hemoglobin that is attached to glucose. HbA1c level reflects the average blood glucose level over the past two to three months. HbA1c level can be affected by various factors, such as diabetes, anemia, and medication.

Choice A reason: Creatinine 0.8 mg/dL is within the normal range (0.6-1.2), and it does not indicate fluid volume excess. Creatinine is a waste product of muscle metabolism that is filtered by the kidneys. High creatinine levels can indicate kidney damage or impaired renal function.

Choice B reason: Hgb 15 g/dL is within the normal range (13-17 for men, 12-16 for women), and it does not indicate fluid volume excess. Hgb stands for hemoglobin, which is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to the tissues. Low hemoglobin levels can indicate anemia, bleeding, or hemolysis.

Choice C reason: BUN 18 mg/dL is within the normal range (7-20), and it does not indicate fluid volume excess. BUN stands for blood urea nitrogen, which is a waste product of protein metabolism that is filtered by the kidneys. High BUN levels can indicate dehydration, kidney damage, or high protein intake.

Choice D reason: Sodium 149 mEq/L is high and indicates fluid volume excess. Sodium is an electrolyte that helps maintain fluid balance, blood pressure, and nerve impulses. High sodium levels can cause fluid retention, edema, hypertension, and heart failure.