Advanced Patient Assessment Practice Exam

Hypoalbuminemia may result in which pulmonary problem?

1. Pulmonary edema

2. Emphysema

3. Diaphragm paralysis

4. Asthma

The correct answer is: Pulmonary edema

Hypoalbuminemia refers to a low level of albumin in the blood, which can lead to a range of complications in various bodily systems, including the pulmonary system. One key consequence of hypoalbuminemia is pulmonary edema. This occurs because albumin plays a crucial role in maintaining oncotic pressure, which helps to keep fluid within the blood vessels. When albumin levels are low, oncotic pressure decreases, and fluid can leak into surrounding tissues, including the lungs. This accumulation of fluid in the lung interstitium and alveoli can significantly impair gas exchange, leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath and impaired oxygenation. The other conditions listed, while they may involve the lungs, do not have a direct causal relationship with hypoalbuminemia. Emphysema is primarily a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease associated with long-term smoking and damage to lung tissue, rather than being influenced by albumin levels. Diaphragm paralysis relates more to neurological or muscular issues affecting diaphragm function rather than a result of hypoalbuminemia. Asthma is an inflammatory condition affecting the airways, which is not directly linked to albumin levels, making pulmonary edema the most relevant pulmonary issue associated with low albumin levels.