The practical nurse (PN) is caring for an older client who is receiving chemotherapy for lung cancer. Which finding is the highest priority for the PN to report to the charge nurse?

Reference ranges:

Blood urea nitrogen (BUN): [Adult: 10 to 20 mg/dL or 3.6 to 7.1 mmol/L] Platelets: [150,000 to 400,000/mm3 or 150 to 400 x 10^9/L]

The correct answer is choice B: Thinning of the skin with loss of elasticity.

Choice A rationale:

While a decreased ability to communicate can be a significant challenge in elderly clients, it is not the primary physical characteristic of aging that contributes to the risk of pressure ulcers. Pressure ulcers develop due to prolonged pressure on specific areas of the skin, leading to reduced blood flow and tissue damage.
Choice B rationale:

Thinning of the skin with loss of elasticity is a critical physical characteristic of aging that contributes to the risk of pressure ulcers. As the skin becomes thinner and less elastic with age, it becomes more susceptible to injury from pressure and shear forces, increasing the likelihood of developing pressure ulcers.

Choice C rationale:

A 16 percent increase in overall body fat does not directly contribute to the risk of pressure ulcers. While changes in body composition occur with aging, the primary risk factors for pressure ulcers are related to skin integrity and mobility, not body fat percentage.

Choice D rationale:

Calcium loss in the bones (osteoporosis) is not the main contributing factor to pressure ulcers. Osteoporosis primarily affects bone density and strength but does not directly influence the development of pressure ulcers.

The correct answer is D. Electrolytes.

Choice A rationale: The white blood cell count (WBC) is typically reviewed for signs of infection or inflammation, but it is not directly related to numbness and tingling.

Choice B rationale: Hematocrit levels assess the proportion of red blood cells in the blood, which are not commonly associated with numbness and tingling.

Choice C rationale: Albumin and protein levels are important for nutritional status and overall health but are not directly associated with numbness and tingling.

Choice D rationale: Electrolytes are crucial for nerve function and muscle contractions. Abnormal levels of electrolytes (such as calcium, potassium, or sodium) can lead to symptoms like numbness and tingling in the extremities.