A nurse is caring for a client who has malnutrition. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?
BMI of 18.5
Potassium 3.7 mEq/L
Phosphorus 3.5 mg/dL
Albumin 2.5 g/dL
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: BMI of 18.5 is at the lower end of the normal range (18.5-24.9), but it does not indicate severe malnutrition.
Choice B reason: Potassium 3.7 mEq/L is within the normal range (3.5-5.0), and it does not indicate electrolyte imbalance due to malnutrition.
Choice C reason: Phosphorus 3.5 mg/dL is within the normal range (2.5-4.5), and it does not indicate mineral deficiency due to malnutrition.
Choice D reason: Albumin 2.5 g/dL is below the normal range (3.5-5.0), and it indicates protein deficiency due to malnutrition. Albumin is a major protein in blood plasma that helps maintain fluid balance, transport hormones, and fight infections. Low albumin levels can cause edema, weakness, infection, and poor wound healing.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice Areason: Graham crackers are made from wheat flour, which contains gluten. Peanut butter is a good source of fat and protein, but it may also contain traces of gluten from cross-contamination.
Choice Breason: Poached eggs are a good source of protein, but wheat bagel contains gluten, which is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. Gluten can damage the small intestine and cause malabsorption, diarrhea, and abdominal pain in people with celiac disease.
Choice C reason: Rice cereal is gluten-free and a good source of carbohydrates. Sliced bananas are gluten-free and a good source of potassium, fiber, and vitamin C.
Choice D reason: Rye toast contains gluten, which can harm people with celiac disease. Herbal tea is gluten-free and can help with hydration, but it does not provide enough calories or nutrients.

Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Dry eyes are not caused by vitamin D deficiency, but by other factors such as aging, medication, environmental conditions, or eye diseases. Vitamin D does not have a direct role in eye health or function.
Choice B reason: Fractures are caused by vitamin D deficiency, as vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, which is essential for bone health and strength. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to osteoporosis, a condition in which the bones become brittle and prone to breaking.
Choice C reason: Infection is not caused by vitamin D deficiency, but by other factors such as exposure to pathogens, weakened immune system, or poor hygiene. Vitamin D may have some role in modulating immune responses, but it is not a primary factor in preventing infection.
Choice D reason: Swelling is not caused by vitamin D deficiency, but by other factors such as injury, inflammation, fluid retention, or allergic reaction. Vitamin D does not have a direct role in regulating fluid balance or reducing inflammation.

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