A nurse is assessing an older adult's nutritional status. The nurse understands that which of the following is the most important indicator for a potential nutritional deficit?
Decreased serum albumin levels
Decreased vitamin D levels
Unintentional weight loss,
Anorexia lasting more than 24 hours
The Correct Answer is C
A. Decreased serum albumin levels.
Explanation: Decreased serum albumin levels can be an indicator of poor nutritional status, but they are not as immediate or easily observed as unintentional weight loss.
B. Decreased vitamin D levels.
Explanation: Decreased vitamin D levels may indicate a specific nutrient deficiency but may not capture the overall nutritional status comprehensively.
C. Unintentional weight loss.
Explanation: Unintentional weight loss is a significant indicator of potential nutritional deficits and can be associated with underlying health issues. It can lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients, negatively impacting an individual's overall health and well-being. Weight loss should prompt further assessment and intervention to identify the underlying causes and address nutritional needs
D. Anorexia lasting more than 24 hours.
Explanation: Anorexia (loss of appetite) lasting more than 24 hours may contribute to inadequate nutrient intake, but it is not as direct an indicator as unintentional weight loss, which reflects changes in body composition and overall nutritional status.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "Use of drugs results in minimal improvement in appetite and weight gain and can have some serious side effects."
Explanation: It is important for the nurse to provide accurate and balanced information about the use of drugs to stimulate appetite. While there are medications available that may be prescribed to improve appetite in certain situations, it is crucial to convey that the effectiveness of such drugs is limited, and they can also have potential serious side effects. Additionally, the decision to use appetite-stimulating drugs should be carefully considered, taking into account the individual's overall health, medical conditions, and potential risks associated with the medications.
B. "There are no drugs that impact appetite or weight gain."
Explanation: This statement is not accurate, as there are medications that may impact appetite and weight gain. However, the effectiveness and appropriateness of such medications should be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
C. "These drugs are not permitted to be used in a long term care facility."
Explanation: This statement is not accurate. The use of appetite-stimulating drugs may be permitted in long-term care facilities, but their use is typically based on individual assessment and consideration of potential risks and benefits.
D. "Yes, there are some very effective drugs out there. Your mother should be on one of them."
Explanation: This statement oversimplifies the decision-making process and may not provide adequate information about the potential risks and benefits of appetite-stimulating drugs. The decision to use such drugs should be made in consultation with the healthcare team, considering the individual's specific circumstances.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Decreased serum albumin levels can be an indicator of protein malnutrition, but it may not reflect overall nutritional status comprehensively. It is more specific to protein status.
B. Decreased vitamin D levels are related to a specific nutrient (vitamin D) and may indicate a deficiency in that vitamin, but it doesn't provide a broad assessment of overall nutritional status.
C. Unintentional weight loss is a key indicator of potential nutritional deficit.
Unintentional weight loss is a significant concern, especially in older adults, as it can be indicative of various underlying health issues, including malnutrition. It is a more general indicator of overall nutritional status.
D. Anorexia lasting more than 24 hours may contribute to weight loss, but it is a symptom rather than a direct measure of nutritional status. Unintentional weight loss encompasses a broader view of changes in body weight that may signal nutritional deficits.
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