The long-term-care nurse is evaluating the effectiveness of protein supplements on a patient who has low serum total protein level. Which of these data indicate that the patient's condition has improved?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Edema is caused by low oncotic pressure in individuals with low serum protein levels; the absence of edema indicates an improvement in the patient's protein status. Good skin turgor is an indicator of fluid balance, not protein status. A low hematocrit could be caused by poor protein intake. Blood pressure does not provide a useful clinical tool for monitoring protein status.

The Long-Term-Care Nurse Is Evaluating the Effectiveness of Protein Supplements