The nurse is reviewing the results of the testing for a 68-year-old male client newly diagnosed with an acute gout attack. Which laboratory/specimen finding should the nurse expect for a client with gout?

Reference Ranges:

Uric Acid: 2.4-7.0 mg/dL

C-Reactive Protein (CRP):< 10 mg/L

Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR): 0-20 mm/hr

A. Resting hand tremors: A classic sign of Parkinson’s disease is a “pill-rolling” resting tremor, which typically diminishes with voluntary movement. This occurs due to dopamine depletion in the basal ganglia, making it one of the most recognizable features during assessment.

B. Fast movements: Parkinson’s disease is characterized by bradykinesia, or slowness of movement, rather than fast movements. Patients often struggle to initiate motion, and their overall mobility is reduced.

C. Frequent movement: Instead of frequent or excessive movement, Parkinson’s patients typically show decreased motor activity. Movements become slow and difficult to initiate, which contributes to impaired daily functioning.

D. Changing facial expression: Parkinson’s disease often causes a “mask-like” facial expression, where facial muscles become stiff and expressionless. Rather than frequent changes, the face typically shows reduced emotional expressiveness.

A. Request that the facility's legal team initiate conservatorship to protect the client's assets: Conservatorship is a restrictive legal measure that removes significant autonomy. It is pursued only after thorough evaluation of capacity and consideration of less invasive options.

B. Recommend that the health care provider complete a capacity evaluation and assign a guardian if needed: A capacity evaluation may become necessary if the client’s dementia progresses and financial decision-making is compromised. However, at this early stage, imposing guardianship without exploring other supports undermines the client’s autonomy.

C. Refer the client to adult protective services without consent, as mandated by elder abuse laws: While nurses are mandated reporters, immediate referral without the client’s engagement may erode trust. Involving APS is important, but it should be coupled with supportive strategies that respect the client’s expressed wishes.

D. Collaborate with a social worker to identify supportive resources and explore options for financial management and caregiving: This balances safety and autonomy by addressing the abuse while respecting the client’s reluctance to involve law enforcement. Social workers can connect the client with protective services, financial counseling, and community support.