Question

The nurse is reviewing a client's laboratory results. The nurse correlates elevations in which values as risk factors for atherosclerosis? (Select all that apply.)

a. Total cholesterol, 280 mg/dL
b. High-density cholesterol, 50 mg/dL
c. Triglycerides, 200 mg/dL
d. Serum albumin, 4 g/dL
e. Low-density cholesterol, 160 mg/dL

Answer 1

Elevated levels of total cholesterol (>200 mg/dL), triglycerides (>150 mg/dL), and low-density cholesterol (LDL >160 mg/dL) are risk factors for atherosclerosis. High-density cholesterol (HDL) and serum albumin levels presented do not pose a risk.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse is reviewing a client's laboratory results and correlating elevations in certain values as risk factors for atherosclerosis. The elevations that are risk factors include:

• Total cholesterol, at 280 mg/dL, which is above the desired range of under 200 mg/dL.
• Triglycerides, at 200 mg/dL, as levels of 150 mg/dL or lower are considered normal and levels higher than this are linked to an increased risk of atherosclerosis.
• Low-density cholesterol (LDL), at 160 mg/dL, since an LDL level above 160 mg/dL is considered high and contributes to the buildup of plaque in the arteries.

On the other hand, High-density cholesterol (HDL) at 50 mg/dL is considered protective against heart disease. A high HDL is beneficial and not a risk factor. Similarly, serum albumin at 4 g/dL is not directly linked to atherosclerosis risk.