The nurse is caring for a client with protein calorie malnutrition who has had abdominal surgery and is receiving parenteral nutrition (PN). Which of the following findings is the best indicator that the client is receiving adequate nutrition?
A)Blood glucose is 6.1 mmol/L.
B)Serum albumin level is 35 g/L.
C)Fluid intake and output are balanced.
D)Surgical incision is healing normally.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Because poor wound healing is a possible complication of malnutrition for this client, normal healing of the incision is an indicator of the effectiveness of the PN in providing adequate nutrition. Blood glucose is monitored to prevent the complications of hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia, but it does not indicate that the client's nutrition is adequate. The intake and output will be monitored but do not indicate that the PN is effective. The albumin level is in the low-normal range but does not reflect adequate caloric intake, which is also important for the client.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Client with Protein Calorie