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The nurse is assessing the laboratory values of a patient with an abdominal wound healing by secondary

intention. Which of the following laboratory values indicates that the patient is receiving adequate nutrition?
A. Serum albumin level of 2.5 g/dL
B. Prealbumin level of 12 mg/dL
C. Transferrin level of 190 mg/dL
D. Total lymphocyte count of 1,900 mL

User Kaveman
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

Among the laboratory values provided, a Prealbumin level of 12 mg/dL is the most indicative of adequate nutrition in a patient with an abdominal wound healing by secondary intention.

Step-by-step explanation:

When assessing the laboratory values of a patient with an abdominal wound healing by secondary intention, certain nutritional markers can provide insight into the adequacy of the patient's nutrition. Out of the options provided, a Prealbumin level of 12 mg/dL indicates that the patient is receiving adequate nutrition. Although the ranges for normalcy can vary slightly, Prealbumin levels are more sensitive than Albumin to changes in nutrition and have a shorter half-life, which allows them to reflect nutritional status more accurately in the short-term. A level between 16-40 mg/dL is typically considered normal, but a level of 12 mg/dL suggests recent improvement or adequate intake for wound healing. The other values given, such as a Serum Albumin level of 2.5 g/dL, Transferrin level of 190 mg/dL, and Total Lymphocyte Count of 1,900/mL, are all lower than the respective normal ranges for a healthy individual and can be concerning for nutritional deficiency.

User Cherven
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