A 72-year-old patient with massive infection is 5 ft 2 in (155 cm) tall and weighs 92 pounds (42 kg). Laboratory results include hemoglobin 10.5 g/dl (105 g/L) and albumin 2.0 g/dl (20 g/L). Which additional information will be most useful when the nurse is determining the patient's nutritional status?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Edema occurs when serum albumin levels and plasma oncotic pressure decrease, as occurs when a stressor such as infection is imposed on pre-existing poor nutritional status. The blood pressure and level of consciousness are not directly affected by protein-calorie malnutrition. Food allergies are not an indicator of nutritional status.

A 72-Year-Old Patient with Massive Infection Is 5 Ft 2