EAQ Fundamentals of Nursing Level 2 Practice Test

Assessing nutritional status in patients is critical for identifying nutritional deficiencies or excesses that can impact overall health and recovery. Weight is a direct measure that can indicate whether a person is underweight, normal weight, or overweight, all of which have significant implications for health. Laboratory data, such as blood tests for glucose, albumin, hemoglobin, and other nutrients, provide objective metrics that help healthcare professionals evaluate a patient’s nutritional intake and metabolism.

Together, weight and laboratory data allow for a comprehensive understanding of a patient's nutritional health. This assessment is essential for creating an individualized care plan that addresses potential nutritional issues, ensures adequate dietary intake, and ultimately supports the patient’s recovery and overall well-being. Other factors like physical activity level, dietary preferences, and psychological factors also play roles in nutritional status, but they do not provide as direct or quantifiable insights as weight and laboratory data do.