An older patient has a pressure ulcer that is resistant to healing despite aggressive therapy and has developed pitting pedal edema.The patient's albumin is 3.4 g/dL.What action by the nurse is best?
A)Request a prealbumin level from the provider.
B)Document the finding as normal for age.
C)Consult the Wound-Ostomy nurse.
D)Review the results of the patient's BNP.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A low albumin level indicates poor nutritional status and may contribute to poor wound healing. Requesting a prealbumin level from the provider can provide further information about the patient's nutritional status and guide the development of an appropriate plan of care. Documentation of the edema as normal for age is incorrect and does not address the underlying issue. Consulting a Wound-Ostomy nurse may be helpful, but addressing the nutritional status is a priority. Reviewing the patient's BNP is not relevant to the issue of poor wound healing and edema.

An Older Patient Has a Pressure Ulcer That Is Resistant