A nurse in an outpatient clinic is assessing a middle adult client as part of a routine physical examination. The client's BP is 142/88 mm Hg, his body mass index (BMI) is 31, and he is a current smoker. The nurse should identify that this client has multiple risk factors for which of the following disorders?
Explanation & Rationale
A. The client exhibits multiple risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD), including: Hypertension (BP 142/88 mm Hg) – increases strain on the heart and blood vessels. Obesity (BMI 31) – contributes to dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, and increased cardiac workload. Tobacco use (current smoker) – promotes atherosclerosis, thrombosis, and endothelial dysfunction. Together, these factors significantly increase the client’s risk for coronary artery disease, stroke, and heart failure. Early intervention through lifestyle modifications and monitoring is critical. B. While chronic illness and lifestyle factors can influence mental health, the client’s presentation does not specifically indicate depression. Risk factors for depression include psychosocial stressors, history of mental illness, and significant life events rather than primarily cardiovascular indicators. C. Hypertension, obesity, and smoking are not primary risk factors for thyroid disorders. Thyroid disease risk is more closely related to age, gender, autoimmune conditions, and family history. D. Testicular cancer is more common in younger adult males (ages 15–35). The client’s age and risk factors such as hypertension, BMI, and smoking do not directly increase the risk for this malignancy.