A nurse is caring for a client who has a major burn injury and is receiving total parenteral nutrition. Which of the following laboratory tests is the priority for the nurse to use to confirm the client is receiving adequate nutrition?
Prealbumin
Folic acid
Magnesium
Transferrin
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Prealbumin is a protein that is synthesized by the liver and reflects the current nutritional status of the client. It has a short half-life of 2 to 3 days, which makes it a sensitive indicator of changes in protein intake. Prealbumin levels are decreased in clients who are malnourished or have inflammation, infection, or liver disease. The nurse should monitor the prealbumin levels of the client who is receiving total parenteral nutrition to ensure that they are within the normal range of 15 to 36 mg/dL.
Choice B reason: Folic acid is a water-soluble vitamin that is involved in DNA synthesis, cell division, and red blood cell production. Folic acid levels are decreased in clients who have malabsorption, alcoholism, or certain medications, such as methotrexate or phenytoin. The nurse should assess the folic acid levels of the client who is receiving total parenteral nutrition, but it is not the priority test to confirm adequate nutrition.
Choice C reason: Magnesium is a mineral that is involved in many enzymatic reactions, muscle contraction, nerve transmission, and bone formation. Magnesium levels are decreased in clients who have malnutrition, diarrhea, vomiting, or diuretic use. The nurse should evaluate the magnesium levels of the client who is receiving total parenteral nutrition, but it is not the priority test to confirm adequate nutrition.
Choice D reason: Transferrin is a protein that transports iron in the blood and reflects the iron stores of the client. Transferrin levels are decreased in clients who have iron deficiency anemia, chronic disease, or liver disease. The nurse should check the transferrin levels of the client who is receiving total parenteral nutrition, but it is not the priority test to confirm adequate nutrition.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:A firm bilateral hand grip indicates normal muscle strength, which is a positive sign but not directly related to hypernatremia treatment efficacy.
Choice B reason: Fatigue is not a sign of effective treatment for hypernatremia. Fatigue can be a symptom of hypernatremia, as well as dehydration, infection, or other conditions. The nurse should assess the client for other causes of fatigue and monitor their vital signs and fluid status.
Choice C reason:Deep tendon reflexes graded as 2+ are considered normal and suggest that neuromuscular function is intact. Since hypernatremia can cause neuromuscular excitability, normal reflexes may indicate effective treatment.
Choice D reason: Urine output 25 mL/hr is not a sign of effective treatment for hypernatremia. Urine output 25 mL/hr is below the normal range of 30 to 50 mL/hr and indicates oliguria, which can be a complication of hypernatremia. Oliguria can result from dehydration, kidney damage, or reduced blood flow to the kidneys due to hypernatremia. The nurse should notify the provider and administer fluids as prescribed.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Changing the feeding to a continuous infusion may not improve the constipation, as it does not address the fluid deficit or the fiber content of the formula. Continuous infusion may also increase the risk of aspiration, diarrhea, and bacterial contamination.
Choice B reason: Increasing the amount of free water can help prevent or treat constipation by hydrating the stool and facilitating its passage. The client's fluid intake and output indicate a fluid deficit, which can contribute to constipation. The recommended fluid intake for adults is 30 to 35 mL/kg/day.
Choice C reason: Decreasing the infusion rate of feeding may worsen the constipation, as it reduces the caloric and fluid intake of the client. The infusion rate should be based on the client's nutritional needs and tolerance.
Choice D reason: Requesting a prescription for a diuretic is not appropriate, as it would further dehydrate the client and aggravate the constipation. Diuretics are indicated for clients with fluid overload, not fluid deficit.
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