Practice Quiz

NCLEX-RN

Category - Basic Care

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A 17-year-old female client was rushed to the hospital after losing consciousness in school. Initial assessment shows muscle wasting, emaciated appearance, and deep-set eyes. Further assessment shows low blood pressure, tachycardia, and hypothermia. The physician suspects anorexia nervosa. Other parameters taken include the client’s height, weight, waist circumference, hip circumference, and skin fold measurement. Among the obtained information, which of the following is the best indicator of the client’s health status?
  1. Waist and hip circumference
  2. Weight and height
  3. Skin fold measurement
  4. Vital signs
Explanation
Answer: B - The best indicator of this client’s health status is the body mass index or BMI, which is the amount of body fat. BMI is a tool used to determine whether the client’s weight is appropriate for their height. This is computed by taking the weight in kilograms and dividing it by height in meters squared. A more accurate but expensive tool for measuring the percentage of body fat is DEXA or dual-energy-X-ray-absorptiometry. Additional tests include waist and hip circumference and skin fold measurement.
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