In assessing an adult client, the nurse calculates the body mass index (BMI) as 14 kg/m2. Which nursing problem should be included in this client's plan of care?

Reference Range:

Underweight: BMI is less than 18.5; Normal weight: BMI is 18.5 to 24.9; Overweight: BMI is 25 to 29.9; Obese: BMI is 30 or more

Choice A Reason:
Normal mental status for age is incorrect. This choice would not be the most accurate conclusion based on the client's response. While it's possible that the client's response could be influenced by factors such as cultural background or personal interpretation, the inability to understand the metaphorical meaning of a commonly known proverb might suggest some level of cognitive impairment or difficulty with abstract thinking. Therefore, it would be premature to conclude that the client's response reflects a normal mental status for her age.
Choice B Reason:
Impaired concentration is incorrect. Impaired concentration would manifest as difficulty maintaining focus our attention during the interaction. However, the client's response doesn't suggest a lack of attention or focus. Instead, it indicates a misinterpretation of the proverb, which is more indicative of impaired thinking or difficulty understanding abstract concepts rather than impaired concentration.
Choice C Reason:
Impaired memory is incorrect. Impaired memory would typically involve difficulty recalling information or events from the past. In this scenario, the client is able to recall the phrase "Glass Houses" but demonstrates difficulty understanding its meaning. Therefore, impaired memory is not the most appropriate conclusion based on the client's response. Instead, the response suggests impaired thinking or difficulty with abstract reasoning.
Choice D Reason:
Impaired thinking is correct. The client's response indicates difficulty understanding the metaphorical meaning of the proverb "Glass Houses," which typically implies that those who live in fragile or vulnerable situations should avoid criticizing others, as they themselves are also vulnerable to criticism or judgment. Instead, the client's response focuses on the literal interpretation of the phrase, suggesting impaired thinking or difficulty grasping abstract concepts.

C. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): COPD is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by airflow limitation, typically caused by chronic bronchitis and/or emphysema. In COPD, the airways become narrowed and inflamed, leading to difficulty breathing. Over time, chronic hypoxia (low oxygen levels in the blood) can develop due to impaired gas exchange in the lungs. Chronic hypoxia can trigger compensatory mechanisms in the body, including vascular changes that result in clubbing of the nails. Therefore, clubbed nails can often be seen in individuals with COPD as a consequence of chronic tissue hypoxia.

D. Lung cancer: Lung cancer is a malignant tumor that arises from the cells of the lungs. It is often associated with long-term smoking, as in the case of this client. Lung cancer can impair lung function and compromise gas exchange, leading to chronic hypoxia. As with COPD, chronic hypoxia can induce vascular changes that result in clubbing of the nails. Therefore, clubbed nails can be a manifestation of advanced lung cancer, particularly in cases where chronic hypoxia is present due to impaired lung function.

E. Chronic bronchitis: Chronic bronchitis is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to excessive mucus production and persistent cough. Similar to other forms of COPD, chronic bronchitis can result in chronic hypoxia due to impaired gas exchange in the lungs. The chronic hypoxia associated with chronic bronchitis can lead to vascular changes that cause clubbing of the nails over time. Therefore, individuals with chronic bronchitis may also exhibit clubbed nails as a consequence of chronic tissue hypoxia.