ATI Capstone Adult Medical Surgical Assessment 2 Related

Review ATI Capstone Adult Medical Surgical Assessment 2 related questions and content

What lab value should be monitored in a patient with HIV?

  • A. CD4 T-cell count below 180 cells/mm3
  • B. Serum albumin levels
  • C. Hemoglobin levels
  • D. White blood cell count
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: CD4 T-cell count below 180 cells/mm3. Monitoring the CD4 T-cell count is crucial in patients with HIV as it indicates the level of immunocompromise. A CD4 T-cell count below 180 cells/mm3 signifies severe immunosuppression and an increased risk of opportunistic infections. Serum albumin levels (choice B) are important for nutritional status assessment but not specific to HIV monitoring. Hemoglobin levels (choice C) are important for assessing anemia but do not directly reflect HIV disease progression. White blood cell count (choice D) is a general marker of inflammation and infection, but monitoring CD4 T-cell count is more specific and crucial in managing HIV.