Lipoprotein Profile
Lipid assessment or lipid profile includes total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglycerides.
- Cholesterol is present in all body tissues and is a major component of LDL, brain, and nerve cells, cell membranes, and some gallbladder stones.
- Triglycerides constitute a major part of very-low-density lipoproteins and a small part of LDLs. Increased cholesterol levels, LDL levels, and triglyceride levels place the client at risk for coronary artery disease. HDL helps protect against the risk of coronary artery disease.
Normal Lab Values for Lipid Profile
- Cholesterol: Less than 200 mg/dL
- Triglycerides: Less than 150 mg/dL
- HDLs: 30 to 70 mg/dL
- LDLs: Less than 130 mg/dL
Nursing Considerations
- Oral contraceptives may increase the lipid level.
- Instruct the client to abstain from foods and fluid, except for water, for 12 to 14 hours and from alcohol for 24 hours before the test.
- Instruct the client to avoid consuming high-cholesterol foods with the evening meal before the test.
