Final answer:
In malnutrition, a nurse can expect decreased hematocrit levels due to reduced red blood cell production. Albumin levels generally decrease, and potassium levels may be affected, rather than glucose levels increasing.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a client is admitted with malnutrition, the nurse would expect certain abnormalities in lab studies. The most likely finding in a patient with malnutrition is decreased hematocrit levels. Malnutrition typically leads to a reduction in the production of red blood cells causing anemia, which is reflected in decreased hematocrit levels. Albumin levels tend to decrease in malnutrition, contrary to rising in dehydration and insulin-resistant diabetes. Potassium levels in malnourished patients can be affected, as the body's stores of this electrolyte are depleted. It is also noteworthy that malnutrition can lead to hypophosphatemia, or abnormally low blood phosphate levels, especially when the conserving function of the kidneys is impaired as seen in starvation or malnourishment. Conversely, blood glucose levels are not typically increased in malnutrition unless there is an underlying condition such as diabetes mellitus.