Question

A nurse at a provider's office is reviewing the lab test results for a group of clients. The nurse should identify that which of the following results indicates the client is at risk for heart disease? (Select all that apply.)

A. Cholesterol (total) 245 mg/dL
B. HDL 90 mg/dL
C. LDL 140 mg/dL
D. Triglycerides 125 mg/dL
E. Troponin I 0.02 ng/mL

Answer 1

An LDL level of 140 mg/dL is concerning and suggests a risk for heart disease as it is above the normal range. LDL is known as "bad cholesterol" and high levels are associated with increased risk of plaque buildup in the arteries. Troponin I level provided does not indicate an immediate heart risk.

Step-by-step explanation:

Among the laboratory test results that indicate a client is at risk for heart disease, an LDL level of 140 mg/dL stands out. According to LibreTexts and other medical references, an LDL level above 130 mg/dL is considered borderline high, and levels above 160 mg/dL are high. Hence, an LDL level of 140 mg/dL suggests a heightened risk of heart disease. LDL, or low-density lipoprotein, is often referred to as "bad cholesterol" because it transports cholesterol to tissues, potentially leading to plaque buildup in arteries if levels are elevated. HDL, or high-density lipoprotein, in contrast, is termed "good cholesterol" because it returns cholesterol to the liver from other tissues, thus preventing plaque formation.

The Troponin I level of 0.02 ng/mL, on the other hand, does not generally suggest an immediate risk for heart disease as it falls within a normal range. Troponin levels are typically evaluated to assess acute cardiac events, and significant elevation occurs in response to heart muscle damage.