The nurse is conducting client teaching about cholesterol levels. When discussing the client's elevated LDL and lowered HDL levels, the client shows an understanding of the significance of these levels by making what statement?
"Increased LDL and decreased HDL increase my risk of coronary artery disease."
"Increased LDL has the potential to decrease my risk of heart disease."
"The decreased HDL level will increase the amount of cholesterol moved away from the artery walls."
"The increased LDL will decrease the amount of cholesterol deposited on the artery walls."
The Correct Answer is A
Elevated levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol are associated with an increased risk of coronary artery disease (CAD). LDL cholesterol is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol because it can contribute to the formation of plaque in the arteries, leading to narrowing and blockage of the arteries supplying the heart. This increases the risk of developing CAD and related complications such as heart attack and stroke.
On the other hand, HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol is often referred to as "good" cholesterol. HDL cholesterol helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and transport it back to the liver for processing and excretion. Higher levels of HDL cholesterol are associated with a decreased risk of CAD because it helps to prevent the accumulation of cholesterol on artery walls.
Therefore, understanding that increased LDL and decreased HDL levels increase the risk of coronary artery disease demonstrates a good understanding of the significance of cholesterol levels and their impact on cardiovascular health.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The inability to move the left arm and leg suggests a neurological deficit, which is a significant finding that requires immediate attention. It could indicate a potential stroke or another neurological emergency that requires prompt evaluation and intervention. The health care provider needs to be notified immediately so that appropriate diagnostic tests and interventions can be initiated.
Tremors in the fingers when extending the arms can be a sign of tremor disorders or medication side effects but may not warrant immediate intervention.
Atrial fibrillation is a cardiac arrhythmia that requires monitoring and management but may not be directly related to the acute neurological issue.
The headache reported by the patient, although significant, is subjective and may be related to the hypertensive emergency or other factors but does not require immediate intervention compared to the potential neurological deficit.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Based on the information provided, an Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) of 0.89 indicates a mild reduction in blood flow to the lower extremities, suggesting peripheral arterial disease (PAD). In this case, the nurse should educate the client about the use of compression stockings.
Compression stockings are a conservative management approach for peripheral arterial disease. They help improve blood flow and alleviate symptoms by applying pressure to the legs, promoting venous return, and reducing swelling. Educating the client about the use of compression stockings can help improve circulation and manage symptoms such as pain, cramping, and fatigue.
Let's review the other options and explain why they are not the most appropriate interventions in this scenario:
Document the information as a normal finding: An ABI of 0.89 indicates an abnormal finding suggestive of peripheral arterial disease. It should not be documented as a normal finding, as it requires further assessment and intervention.
Prepare the client for an arterial bypass: An arterial bypass is a surgical intervention that is typically reserved for more severe cases of peripheral arterial disease. With an ABI of 0.89, which indicates mild reduction in blood flow, arterial bypass is not the first-line intervention. Conservative measures and medical management are usually recommended initially.
Anticipate a prescription for clopidogrel and simvastatin: Medications like clopidogrel (antiplatelet) and simvastatin (statin) may be prescribed for peripheral arterial disease. However, the next appropriate step after obtaining an ABI of 0.89 would be to educate the client about the use of compression stockings as a conservative management option before considering medication therapy.

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