The nurse is reviewing laboratory values of a client who was discharged two weeks ago after experiencing a myocardial infarction. Which finding most requires follow-up with the client? Reference Range: Triglycerides [40 to 160 mg/dL (0.45 to 1.81 mmol/L)] Lipase [0 to 160 units/L (0 to 2.67 μkat/L)] Low-density lipoproteins (LDL) [less than 130 mg/dL (3.36 mmol/L)] High-density lipoproteins (HDL) [greater than 45 mg/dL (greater than 1.16 mmol/L)]

A. Low-density lipoproteins (LDL) 185 mg/dL (4.79 mmol/L): This LDL value is significantly above the recommended level for a client with a history of myocardial infarction. Elevated LDL contributes to atherosclerotic plaque formation and increases the risk of further cardiac events. B. Triglycerides 155 mg/dL (1.75 mmol/L): Although this value is at the higher end of the normal range, it is still within acceptable limits. While elevated triglycerides are a cardiovascular risk factor, this level alone does not require urgent follow-up. C. Lipase 50 units/L (0.83 μkat/L): This lipase level is well within the normal range and is not relevant to cardiac health. Lipase is typically used to evaluate pancreatic function and has no direct bearing on post-myocardial infarction follow-up. D. High-density lipoproteins (HDL) 60 mg/dL (1.55 mmol/L): This HDL value is above the recommended minimum and is actually considered protective against heart disease. No follow-up is needed for this value, as it reflects favorable cardiovascular risk status.