A nurse reviews a client's laboratory results. Which findings should alert the nurse to the possibility of atherosclerosis? (Select all that apply.)

A. Total cholesterol: 280 mg/dL (7.3 mmol/L): Elevated total cholesterol is a major risk factor for atherosclerosis. Excess circulating cholesterol can deposit in arterial walls, forming plaques that narrow vessels and increase the risk for coronary artery disease, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease. B. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol: 50 mg/dL (1.3 mmol/L): HDL cholesterol is considered "good" cholesterol because it helps transport excess cholesterol from peripheral tissues to the liver for excretion. A level of 50 mg/dL is within normal range and is protective rather than contributing to atherosclerosis. C. Triglycerides: 200 mg/dL (2.3 mmol/L): Elevated triglycerides are associated with increased risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. High triglyceride levels promote endothelial dysfunction and can contribute to plaque formation when combined with elevated LDL levels. D. Serum albumin: 4 g/dL (5.8 mcmol/L): Normal serum albumin levels reflect adequate nutritional status but are not directly related to the development of atherosclerosis. Albumin does not contribute to lipid plaque formation. E. Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol: 160 mg/dL (4.1 mmol/L): High LDL cholesterol is strongly linked to atherosclerosis because LDL particles deposit cholesterol in arterial walls, leading to plaque formation, vessel narrowing, and increased risk for ischemic cardiovascular events.