Health Promotion and Maintenance NCLEX RN Questions Related

Review Health Promotion and Maintenance NCLEX RN Questions related questions and content

Mrs. M has had diabetes for seven years. She has worked hard to control her blood glucose levels and watch her dietary intake. Her physician orders a hemoglobin A1C test. Which of the following best describes the action of this test?

  • A. The test determines if the client is anemic and needs iron supplements
  • B. The test determines if there is excess glucose building up in the urine
  • C. The test determines the amount of hemoglobin reaching the liver to support gluconeogenesis
  • D. The test determines the amount of hemoglobin that is coated with glucose
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A hemoglobin A1C test, also known as a glycated hemoglobin test, determines the amount of hemoglobin that is coated with glucose. Excess glucose in the bloodstream may cause it to attach to hemoglobin on red blood cells. Because the life of these cells is between 2 and 3 months, the hemoglobin A1C is an accurate measurement of a client's glucose during that time. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Choice A relates to anemia and iron supplements, which are not assessed by a hemoglobin A1C test. Choice B mentions excess glucose in the urine, which is typically assessed through a urine glucose test, not the hemoglobin A1C test. Choice C is incorrect as the test is not related to the amount of hemoglobin reaching the liver to support gluconeogenesis; instead, it specifically measures the amount of hemoglobin that is glycated or coated with glucose.