Biology Forums - Study Force

A nurse is reviewing the results of several patients' cholesterol and lipid screenings. For which patient is the action appropriate?
 
  A.
  HDL cholesterol 66 mg/dL: Evaluate patient for cardiovascular risk.
  B.
  LDL cholesterol 98 mg/dL: Instruct patient to take fish oil 3 gm daily.
  C.
  Total cholesterol 240 mg/dL: Teach heart-healthy lifestyle changes.
  D.
  Triglycerides 132 mg/dL: Refer to dietician for comprehensive diet education.

ANS: C
A cholesterol below 200 mg/dL is desirable, so this patient's level is high. The nurse should plan to teach this patient about heart-healthy lifestyle changes. The other laboratory values are in the desirable range, so no action is necessary.