Editing Nutrition – RN Practice Questions (section)

==Question 15==
A client with a stage 3 pressure injury has a serum albumin of 2.6 g/dL and reports poor appetite. Which nursing action is the '''priority'''?
# Encourage the client to drink more water with each meal.
# Consult the registered dietitian for a nutrition assessment and high-protein supplementation.
# Document the finding and reassess the albumin in three weeks.
# Instruct the client to take a daily multivitamin.

'''Answer:''' 2. Consult the registered dietitian for a nutrition assessment and high-protein supplementation.

''Rationale:'' Wound healing depends on protein for collagen synthesis, and this client's albumin and intake history indicate protein-energy malnutrition that will stall healing regardless of dressing technique. Protein needs in the presence of a stage 3 pressure injury rise to roughly 1.2 to 2.0 g/kg/day, along with adequate calories, vitamin C, and zinc. The registered dietitian is the appropriate interprofessional referral for calculating and prescribing that plan. Option 1 addresses hydration but not the protein deficit and may reduce intake by producing early satiety. Option 3 delays intervention for three weeks while tissue breakdown continues. Option 4 supplies micronutrients but not the protein and calories the client needs.

[[Category:Nutrition]]
[[Category:Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN)]]
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