Final Answer:
The hemoglobin and hematocrit tests are ordered to assess red blood cell status. Thus, the correct option is b) Anemia.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hemoglobin (Hb) and hematocrit (Hct) tests are commonly ordered to assess a patient's red blood cell (RBC) status, providing valuable information about their oxygen-carrying capacity. In the context of a patient complaining of tiredness and appearing malnourished, these tests are particularly relevant in identifying a potential case of anemia. Anemia is a condition characterized by a decrease in the number of red blood cells or a deficiency in hemoglobin, leading to reduced oxygen delivery to tissues and resulting in fatigue and malaise.
The hemoglobin test measures the amount of hemoglobin in a person's blood, usually expressed in grams per deciliter (g/dL). Normal values vary, but generally, adult men have a range of about 13.8 to 17.2 g/dL, while adult women have a range of about 12.1 to 15.1 g/dL. Hematocrit, on the other hand, represents the percentage of blood volume occupied by red blood cells. Normal values are around 38.3% to 48.6% for adult men and 35.5% to 44.9% for adult women. A decrease in these values below the normal range indicates anemia, confirming the patient's symptoms of tiredness and malnourishment.
In summary, the hemoglobin and hematocrit tests are crucial in diagnosing anemia, shedding light on the patient's red blood cell status and providing valuable information for the nurse nutritionist to address the underlying causes of fatigue and malnourishment.
Therefore, the correct option is b) Anemia