Question

A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of several male clients who have peripheral arterial disease. the nurse should plan to provide dietary teaching for the client who has which of the following laboratory values

A- Cholesterol 195 HDL 55 LDL 125
B-Cholesterol 185 HDL 50 LDL 120
C- Cholesterol 190 HDL 25 LDL 160
D- Cholesterol 180 HDL 70 LDL 90

Answer 1

The client with total cholesterol at 190 mg/dL, HDL at 25 mg/dL, and LDL at 160 mg/dL requires dietary teaching to address their high LDL and low HDL levels, which put them at an increased risk for heart disease.

Step-by-step explanation:

The student's question pertains to interpreting laboratory results of individuals with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and identifying which client requires dietary teaching based on their cholesterol levels. In assessing the laboratory values provided, attention should be focused on HDL ("good cholesterol transporter") and LDL ("bad cholesterol transporter") levels, as well as total cholesterol. High levels of LDL increase the risk of heart disease, while high levels of HDL decrease this risk. The ideal situation is to have low LDL and high HDL values.

The client showing laboratory values of total cholesterol at 190 mg/dL, HDL at 25 mg/dL, and LDL at 160 mg/dL (Option C) has the most concerning lipid profile because their LDL level is considered high (>160 mg/dL) and their HDL is significantly lower than the desirable value for men (40 mg/dL). This puts the client at a higher risk for heart disease, and accordingly, this client would benefit most from dietary teaching to improve their lipid profile.

Answer 2

The nurse should plan to provide dietary teaching for the client with Laboratory Values of option C - Cholesterol 190, HDL 25, LDL 160.

Explanation:

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is associated with atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the buildup of plaque in the arteries, leading to reduced blood flow. In this context, it's crucial to consider the lipid profile, specifically the levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol. Higher levels of LDL cholesterol contribute to the formation of arterial plaques.

In Laboratory Values C, the client has a total cholesterol of 190, HDL cholesterol of 25, and LDL cholesterol of 160. Elevated LDL cholesterol is a concerning factor in atherosclerosis. HDL cholesterol, often termed "good" cholesterol, plays a protective role by transporting excess cholesterol away from the arteries. The low HDL level in this case suggests a potential imbalance in cholesterol metabolism, further increasing the risk of atherosclerosis.

Dietary teaching for this client should focus on reducing the intake of saturated and trans fats, which contribute to elevated LDL cholesterol. Emphasizing a heart-healthy diet, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, can help improve the lipid profile. Additionally, encouraging lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise and smoking cessation can further support cardiovascular health. By addressing these factors, the nurse aims to mitigate the progression of peripheral arterial disease and promote overall cardiovascular well-being.