Question

a nurse is reviewing a clients laboratory values. which of the following information is correct regarding albumin levels and nutritional status?
albumin level is a poor short-term indicator of protein status.
hydration status does not affect a clients albumin level.
an albumin level of 3.2 g/dl is within the expected reference range.
albumin level is calculated by keeping a 24-hr record of protein intake.

Explanation:

1. Analyze the first option: Albumin has a long half - life (about 20 days), so it changes slowly. Thus, it is a poor short - term indicator of protein status. This statement is correct.
2. Analyze the second option: Hydration status does affect albumin levels. For example, in dehydration, the plasma volume decreases, which can cause a relative increase in albumin concentration, and in over - hydration, the opposite can occur. So this statement is incorrect.
3. Analyze the third option: The normal reference range for albumin is approximately 3.4 - 5.4 g/dL. A value of 3.2 g/dL is below the normal range, so this statement is incorrect.
4. Analyze the fourth option: Albumin level is measured through laboratory blood tests, not by keeping a 24 - hr record of protein intake. The 24 - hr protein intake record is used for other nutritional assessments like protein intake calculation, not for measuring albumin. So this statement is incorrect.

Answer:

A. Albumin level is a poor short - term indicator of protein status.