A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who has Crohn's disease and experienced an exacerbation 7 days ago. Which of the following laboratory results should the nurse identify as an indication the client is experiencing malnutrition?
Hematocrit 37%
Iron 160 mcg/dL
Prealbumin 9 mg/dL.
C-reactive protein 15 mg/L
The Correct Answer is C
A) Hematocrit 37% is within the normal range for adults, indicating that the client’s red blood cell volume is adequate. While anemia can be a concern in clients with Crohn's disease, this value does not specifically indicate malnutrition.
B) Iron 160 mcg/dL is above the normal range (typically 50-170 mcg/dL). Elevated iron levels can result from supplementation or other factors, but it does not directly indicate malnutrition. Iron status alone is not a reliable marker for overall nutritional status.
C) Prealbumin 9 mg/dL is significantly below the normal range (15-36 mg/dL). Low prealbumin levels are a strong indicator of malnutrition because prealbumin has a short half-life and reflects recent changes in protein status and dietary intake. This result suggests the client has been experiencing inadequate nutritional intake or absorption.
D) C-reactive protein (CRP) 15 mg/L indicates inflammation, which is common during an exacerbation of Crohn's disease. While elevated CRP levels signal active inflammation, they do not specifically indicate malnutrition. CRP is more commonly used as a marker of inflammatory activity rather than nutritional status.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) "I should choose cold foods over warm foods.": Cold foods are not necessarily better than warm foods for someone with ulcerative colitis. The choice of temperature depends on individual tolerance, but there is no specific recommendation that cold foods are preferable. Warm, easily digestible foods can also be soothing and well-tolerated.
B) "I should follow a low-protein diet.": This is not an accurate recommendation for ulcerative colitis. Protein is essential for healing and maintaining muscle mass, especially if the client is experiencing malnutrition or weight loss due to the disease. A balanced diet with adequate protein is important for overall health.
C) "I should increase my fiber intake to 35 grams a day.": High fiber intake can be problematic for those with active ulcerative colitis as it may increase symptoms such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea. It is often recommended to limit fiber intake during flare-ups and focus on low-residue diets to reduce bowel activity.
D) "I should eat small, frequent meals throughout the day.": This is a recommended approach for managing ulcerative colitis. Small, frequent meals can help ensure adequate nutrient intake without overwhelming the digestive system, which can help manage symptoms and improve overall comfort.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Hispanic ethnicity: While ethnicity can influence the prevalence and risk of hypertension, Hispanic ethnicity alone is not a direct risk factor for hypertension. Other factors such as lifestyle, diet, and genetic predispositions play more significant roles in the development of hypertension.
B) Cholesterol 190 mg/dL: Although elevated cholesterol levels can contribute to cardiovascular disease, a cholesterol level of 190 mg/dL is considered borderline high but not a primary risk factor for hypertension. The risk for hypertension is more directly related to factors like blood pressure levels and weight.
C) BMI of 28: A Body Mass Index (BMI) of 28 falls into the overweight category, which is a known risk factor for developing hypertension. Excess body weight can increase blood pressure by increasing the workload on the heart and contributing to insulin resistance, which can further elevate blood pressure.
D) History of atrial fibrillation: While atrial fibrillation is a significant cardiac condition and can be associated with other cardiovascular risks, it is not a direct risk factor for the development of hypertension. The primary risk factors for hypertension include factors like obesity, diet, and physical inactivity.
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