When assessing nutritional status for a patient's plan of care, the nurse should consider which laboratory value that may indicate altered nutrition?
A)Hemoglobin
B)Serum albumin
C)Arterial blood gas
D)Platelet count

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When assessing nutritional status for a patient's plan of care, the nurse should consider the serum albumin level, which may be an indication of altered nutrition. Low serum albumin levels may indicate a protein deficiency. The patient may not be getting enough nutrients through their diet to maintain adequate levels of albumin and the nurse may need to further assess the patient's nutritional status on admission.

When Assessing Nutritional Status for a Patient's Plan of Care