The nurse is admitting an older client with possible malnutrition. Which parameters are most indicative of the client's nutritional status?

Choice A

24-hour food recall, food preferences, and allergies is incorrect. While these factors are important for understanding the client's dietary habits and possible dietary restrictions, they do not directly provide information about the client's current nutritional status or overall nutritional health.

Choice B

Body mass index (BMI) and serum albumin level is correct. Body mass index (BMI) and serum albumin level are commonly used parameters to assess a client's nutritional status. These measures provide valuable information about the client's weight, muscle mass, and protein status. Let's break down the options:

Choice C

Triceps skin fold and mid-arm circumference is incorrect. These measurements can provide information about the client's body composition and muscle mass. However, they are not as commonly used as BMI and serum albumin level for assessing nutritional status.

Choice D

Weight loss history and body surface area (BSA) is incorrect. Weight loss history is relevant for understanding changes in the client's weight over time, which can indicate potential malnutrition. However, it's not as comprehensive as BMI, which considers both weight and height. Body surface area (BSA) is not typically used to assess nutritional status.

Choice A

Drinking a litre of water during and after running is not appropriate: While hydration is important, consuming plain water might not be sufficient to address electrolyte imbalances that can contribute to leg cramps. Drinking excessive amounts of water without electrolyte replacement can even lead to a dilution of electrolyte levels.

Choice B

Consuming a sports drink before and during training is appropriate. Sports drinks are formulated to provide not only hydration but also electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and sometimes magnesium. These electrolytes are important for proper muscle function and can help prevent cramps. Consuming a sports drink before and during training can help maintain electrolyte balance and reduce the risk of leg cramps.

Choice C

Eating a high carbohydrate meal after running is not appropriate. Carbohydrates are important for refuelling muscles after exercise, but this recommendation doesn't directly address the issue of leg cramps during training. Electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium play a role in muscle function and can help prevent cramps.

Choice D

Avoid drinking alcohol forty-eight hours before training is not appropriate. While avoiding alcohol before training is generally a good idea for hydration and performance reasons, it doesn't specifically address the issue of leg cramps. Electrolyte balance is more directly related to muscle cramping.