A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who has Crohn's disease and experienced an exacerbation 7 days ago. Which of the following laboratory results should the nurse identify as an indication the client is experiencing malnutrition?
Hematocrit 37%
Iron 160 mcg/dL
Prealbumin 9 mg/dL.
C-reactive protein 15 mg/L
The Correct Answer is C
A) Hematocrit 37% is within the normal range for adults, indicating that the client’s red blood cell volume is adequate. While anemia can be a concern in clients with Crohn's disease, this value does not specifically indicate malnutrition.
B) Iron 160 mcg/dL is above the normal range (typically 50-170 mcg/dL). Elevated iron levels can result from supplementation or other factors, but it does not directly indicate malnutrition. Iron status alone is not a reliable marker for overall nutritional status.
C) Prealbumin 9 mg/dL is significantly below the normal range (15-36 mg/dL). Low prealbumin levels are a strong indicator of malnutrition because prealbumin has a short half-life and reflects recent changes in protein status and dietary intake. This result suggests the client has been experiencing inadequate nutritional intake or absorption.
D) C-reactive protein (CRP) 15 mg/L indicates inflammation, which is common during an exacerbation of Crohn's disease. While elevated CRP levels signal active inflammation, they do not specifically indicate malnutrition. CRP is more commonly used as a marker of inflammatory activity rather than nutritional status.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) HDL 65 mg/dL: High-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels of 65 mg/dL are considered protective against heart disease. Higher HDL levels are generally associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, so this result is not a concern.
B) LDL 120 mg/dL: Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels of 120 mg/dL are elevated for individuals at increased risk of cardiovascular disease, especially with a family history of hyperlipidemia and cardiac disease. An LDL level above 100 mg/dL is a risk factor for heart disease, making this result important to report to the provider for potential intervention.
C) Cholesterol 195 mg/dL: A total cholesterol level of 195 mg/dL is slightly above the recommended level of less than 200 mg/dL but may not be immediately alarming unless the client has other risk factors. However, this value alone is not as critical as LDL levels in assessing risk.
D) Triglycerides 175 mg/dL: Triglyceride levels of 175 mg/dL are slightly elevated, as normal levels are typically less than 150 mg/dL. While elevated triglycerides are a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, this level is less critical compared to elevated LDL levels in the context of the client’s family history.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Provide detailed directions for the client's expected behavioral changes
Giving detailed directions may overwhelm the client, increasing anxiety. It's more effective to offer support and simple, clear guidance to reduce stress.
B) Request the client write down an evaluation of personal strengths
Encouraging the client to focus on personal strengths can boost self-esteem and resilience, helping them cope with anxiety by promoting a positive self-image and reinforcing their ability to manage stress.
C) List alternative interpretations of the client's illogical thinking
While reframing thoughts can be helpful, this approach might be too confrontational initially. It's important to build trust and allow the client to explore thoughts at their own pace.
D) Encourage the client to participate in group recreational activities to help concentration
While recreational activities can be beneficial, they may not directly address anxiety management. Individual reflection on strengths can be a more immediate way to enhance coping skills.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.