What is a key strategy to prevent a drop in a patient's albumin levels?

Preventing healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) is a key strategy in maintaining a patient's overall health and can significantly influence albumin levels. Albumin, a protein that helps maintain oncotic pressure and transport substances in the blood, can be adversely affected by various stressors on the body, including infections. Infections can lead to increased inflammation and metabolic stress, which can in turn impact protein metabolism and synthesis, including albumin.

When HAIs occur, the body responds with an inflammatory response that can decrease the production of albumin by the liver and increase its breakdown. By effectively preventing HAIs, healthcare providers can reduce the risk of inflammation and other complications that compromise a patient’s nutritional status and overall protein balance. This proactive approach aids in maintaining stable albumin levels, thereby promoting better patient outcomes.

Increasing protein intake drastically, encouraging excessive hydration, and limiting all food intake before treatment do not directly address the underlying issues related to infections and may even have unintended consequences on a patient's health.