A nurse is reviewing a client's laboratory results for effectiveness of total parenteral nutrition (TPN). Which of the following laboratory values is the best indicator for the nurse to monitor for short-term effectiveness of the TPN?
Hemoglobin
Total albumin
Transferrin
Prealbumin
The Correct Answer is D
Prealbumin (also known as transthyretin): Prealbumin is a protein synthesized in the liver and has a shorter half-life compared to albumin. It is considered a more sensitive marker for
short-term nutritional changes and can reflect the effectiveness of TPN within a few days.
Prealbumin levels can indicate the response to nutritional interventions and provide a more immediate assessment of nutritional adequacy.
Hemoglobin: Hemoglobin is a measure of the oxygen-carrying capacity of red blood cells and is typically used to assess anemia. While hemoglobin can be affected by nutritional status, it is not a specific marker for the short-term effectiveness of TPN.
Total albumin: Total albumin is a measure of protein status and can be affected by various factors, including inflammation and liver disease. However, it has a longer half-life and slower response to nutritional changes, so it may not be the best indicator for short-term effectiveness.
Transferrin: Transferrin is a protein involved in iron transport and can be used as an indicator of iron status. However, it may not reflect short-term changes in nutritional status and is not specific to TPN effectiveness.
Monitoring prealbumin levels can help determine the short-term effectiveness of TPN and guide adjustments to the nutritional plan.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Childhood obesity is associated with an increased risk of developing various health problems, and hypertension is one of the most common complications. Excess weight and adiposity can lead to increased blood volume and systemic inflammation, which can contribute to the development of hypertension. Long-standing hypertension in childhood can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and other health issues later in life.
The other options are incorrect:
Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition characterized by joint inflammation in children. While obesity can place additional stress on joints, it is not directly linked to the development of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.
Type 1 diabetes mellitus is an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Obesity is not a known cause of type 1 diabetes.
Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. While obesity can be associated with thyroid disorders, such as hypothyroidism, it is not a direct complication of childhood obesity.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
"I should limit the amount of fiber in my diet": This statement demonstrates an understanding of the teaching. In Crohn's disease, certain types of fiber can be difficult to digest and may worsen symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bowel obstruction. Therefore, it is often recommended to limit the intake of high-fiber foods during active disease flares.
"I will need to take mild laxatives to help me have a bowel movement": Taking laxatives is not typically recommended for individuals with Crohn's disease unless specifically prescribed by a healthcare provider. Laxatives can further irritate the intestines and potentially worsen symptoms. Therefore, this statement does not demonstrate an understanding of the teaching.
"I am likely to gain weight due to this disease": Weight loss is a more common occurrence in individuals with Crohn's disease due to factors such as decreased appetite, malabsorption, and increased metabolism. Weight gain is not typically associated with the disease, so this statement does not indicate an understanding of the teaching.
"Avoiding glutamine will help me recover from this disease": Glutamine is an amino acid that plays a role in gut health and repair. It is often considered beneficial for individuals with Crohn's disease as it supports intestinal healing. Therefore, avoiding glutamine would not be recommended for recovery from the disease. This statement does not indicate an understanding of the teaching.

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