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 A
Explanation
A) Talk about the special features of the baby with the client: This intervention acknowledges the baby as a real person and can provide comfort to the grieving parents by validating their loss and giving them a chance to create memories, which is an important aspect of the grieving process.
B) Post a sign indicating No Visitors: This may not be appropriate as it might isolate the client further. Some parents may want the support of family and friends during this difficult time, and such a restriction should be based on the parents' wishes rather than a standard protocol.
C) Limit the amount of time the client is allowed to have the baby in her room: Allowing parents to spend as much time as they need with their baby can help them with the grieving process. Placing limits might be perceived as insensitive and could hinder the emotional healing process.
D) Tell the parents they should hold their baby: While many parents find comfort in holding their stillborn baby, it should be offered as a choice rather than a directive. It is important to respect the parents' individual coping mechanisms and provide support based on their preferences.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Provide instruction on pelvic muscle exercises:
Pelvic muscle exercises are beneficial for urinary incontinence but are not a standard intervention for treating pyelonephritis. Pyelonephritis focuses on managing infection and inflammation of the kidneys rather than strengthening pelvic muscles.
B) Administer skeletal muscle relaxants every 6 hr:
Skeletal muscle relaxants are not typically used in the treatment of pyelonephritis. The focus should be on antibiotics to treat the infection and analgesics for pain relief, rather than muscle relaxants.
C) Encourage fluid intake:
Increasing fluid intake helps flush bacteria from the urinary tract, which can aid in reducing the infection and promoting kidney health. Proper hydration is crucial for clients with pyelonephritis to help manage symptoms and prevent further complications.
D) Monitor vital signs every 8 hr:
While monitoring vital signs is important, it should be done more frequently than every 8 hours, especially in the acute phase of pyelonephritis, to promptly identify any signs of worsening infection or sepsis.
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