Question

The client has serum cholesterol levels of:

Low density lipoprotein (LDL) = 105mg/dl
High density lipoprotein (HDL) = 37mg/dl
Low density lipoprotein (LDL)/high density lipoprotein (HDL) ratio = 4.1
In planning care with this client, what is the best outcome?

Answer 1

The best outcome for the client with an LDL level of 105 mg/dl and an HDL level of 37 mg/dl is to increase HDL levels and maintain or reduce LDL levels to improve the LDL/HDL ratio and reduce heart disease risk.

Step-by-step explanation:

The client's serum cholesterol levels indicate an LDL (Low-density lipoprotein) level of 105 mg/dl, which is within the optimal range as anything below 100 mg/dl is ideal. However, the HDL (High-density lipoprotein) level is at 37 mg/dl, which is lower than the desired level; for men it should be higher than 40 mg/dl and for women higher than 50 mg/dl to prevent heart disease. In this case, the LDL/HDL ratio is 4.1, which is higher than the optimal ratio, suggesting a higher risk of heart disease.

Considering these levels, the best outcome in planning care for this client would be to increase the HDL cholesterol level and maintain or further reduce the LDL cholesterol level, aiming to improve the LDL/HDL ratio, thus reducing the risk of heart disease. Lifestyle modifications such as dietary changes to reduce saturated fats and increase intake of omega-3 fatty acids, along with regular physical activity, can help achieve these goals.