48. A client, who has abused alcohol for 20 years, is admitted to a rehabilitation unit. Which laboratory values should a nurse expect to find?
48. A client, who has abused alcohol for 20 years, is admitted to a rehabilitation unit. Which laboratory values should a nurse expect to find?
. Decreased total protein and increased albumin.
. Increased blood alcohol levels and impaired reflexes.
. Increased LDH and amylase and decreased albumin.
. Decreased potassium and increased magnesium.
Test-Taking Tip
Think impaired liver function as a long-term effect of alcohol abuse.
Content Area: Mental Health, Substance Abuse; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Assessment; Cognitive Level: Application; Client Need/Subneed: Physiological Integrity/Reduction of Risk Potential/Laboratory Values
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Answer 1 is incorrect because the laboratory values would reflect a decrease in albumin, not an increase, because impaired liver function decreases albumin synthesis. Answer 2 is incorrect because, by the time the client arrives at rehab, the blood alcohol level would be low to zero. Answer 3 is correct because these are common laboratory values for liver impairment when someone is a long-term abuser of alcohol. Answer 4 is incorrect because the magnesium would be decreased, not increased, because of inadequate intake of nutrients during alcohol consumption and impaired transport of nutrients related to a lack of the liver enzymes.