The nurse is reviewing the laboratory findings of a patient to assess the patient's nutritional status.
The nurse understands the laboratory finding that is the best indicator of inadequate protein intake is a:
High blood urea nitrogen.
Low specific gravity.
Low serum albumin.
High hemoglobin.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
High blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels primarily indicate impaired kidney function or dehydration, as urea is a waste product of protein metabolism filtered by the kidneys. While severe protein catabolism can elevate BUN, it is not the most direct or sensitive indicator of inadequate protein intake. Normal BUN ranges typically fall between 7 to 20 mg/dL.
Choice B rationale
Low specific gravity of urine suggests that the kidneys are excreting dilute urine, which can be caused by various factors such as excessive fluid intake, diabetes insipidus, or kidney dysfunction. It is not a reliable indicator of protein nutritional status. Normal urine specific gravity ranges from 1.005 to 1.030.
Choice C rationale
Serum albumin is a protein synthesized by the liver and is a key indicator of long-term protein status. Inadequate protein intake leads to decreased albumin synthesis, resulting in low serum albumin levels. Albumin has a relatively long half-life (around 20 days), making it a reflection of chronic protein deficiency. Normal serum albumin levels typically range from 3.5 to 5.0 g/dL.
Choice D rationale
Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells responsible for oxygen transport. While severe protein deficiency can eventually affect hemoglobin levels due to the protein component, it is not the most direct or immediate indicator of inadequate protein intake. Other factors like iron deficiency are more commonly associated with low hemoglobin. Normal hemoglobin ranges for adults are typically 13.5 to 17.5 g/dL for males and 12.0 to 15.5 g/dL for females.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Creating a plan of care for a client recovering from a stroke requires comprehensive assessment, synthesis of complex data, and the establishment of nursing diagnoses and interventions. This falls within the scope of practice of a registered nurse who has the education and expertise in complex patient management.
Choice B rationale
Assessing a pressure injury involves observing and documenting wound characteristics. While an RN may perform this, an LVN, under the supervision of an RN, can also contribute to this task by collecting and reporting data about the wound.
Choice C rationale
Providing oral suctioning is a basic nursing skill that can be performed by both RNs and LVNs, following appropriate training and established protocols, to maintain airway patency for a client with pneumonia.
Choice D rationale
Administering internal feedings through a nasogastric tube is a task that can be delegated to an LVN who has received specific training and demonstrated competency, under the supervision of an RN, provided the client is stable and the feeding protocol is well-established.
Choice E rationale
Inserting a urinary catheter can be performed by both RNs and LVNs who have received the necessary education, training, and demonstrated competency in this invasive procedure, according to facility policies and state regulations.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Discouraging the family from talking about death can hinder their grieving process and may prevent the dying client from having important conversations and finding closure. Open communication about death and dying is often therapeutic for both the client and their family members, allowing them to express emotions and support each other.
Choice B rationale
Informing the family that the client may soon be out of danger when the client is actively dying of renal failure is providing false reassurance and can erode trust between the nurse and the family. It is crucial to be honest and compassionate about the client's prognosis, preparing the family for the impending death rather than offering false hope.
Choice C rationale
While rest is important for a dying client, encouraging the family to leave the client alone may deprive both the client and the family of valuable time for connection and saying goodbye. The presence and support of loved ones can provide comfort to the dying person and begin the grieving process for the family.
Choice D rationale
Informing the family that it is time to bid farewell acknowledges the reality of the situation and provides an opportunity for the family to express their love, say their goodbyes, and find closure. This supportive action respects the dying process and the emotional needs of the family members as they face the imminent loss of their loved one. .
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