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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Provide a detailed account of the feelings and sounds the client will experience:
While explaining the procedure can be helpful, it might increase anxiety for someone with claustrophobia by focusing on potentially distressing details. It's more effective to use relaxation techniques or medications to manage acute anxiety.
B) Obtain a prescription for clonazepam:
Clonazepam, a benzodiazepine, can help reduce anxiety and is often used to manage claustrophobia during procedures like an MRI. This medication can help the client stay calm and more comfortable during the scan.
C) Obtain a prescription for ziprasidone:
Ziprasidone is an antipsychotic medication and is not typically used for managing situational anxiety or claustrophobia. Using an appropriate anxiolytic like clonazepam is more effective in this context.
D) Inform the client that the time spent in the MRI machine will only be 5 min:
This statement is misleading as MRI scans usually take longer than 5 minutes. Providing inaccurate information can undermine trust and increase anxiety if the procedure takes longer than stated.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Irrigate the affected ear with hydrogen peroxide: Irrigating the ear with hydrogen peroxide is not recommended post-myringotomy. This can cause irritation or infection at the surgical site, which could impede healing and potentially worsen the condition.
B) Drink liquids through a straw: Drinking liquids through a straw can create pressure changes in the ear, which is not advisable post-myringotomy. These pressure changes might affect the healing process of the ear.
C) Swimming is permitted after 1 week: Swimming is typically restricted for a longer period post-myringotomy to prevent water from entering the ear, which can lead to infection or interfere with the healing process.
D) Air travel is allowed after 3 weeks: Air travel restrictions are generally recommended for a few weeks post-myringotomy due to pressure changes that occur during flight, which can affect the ear's healing process. Waiting for 3 weeks allows the surgical site to heal sufficiently, reducing the risk of complications from pressure changes.
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