A 45-year-old client with no significant medical history informs the nurse they have been feeling more fatigued lately and attributes it to stress. Which health screening should the nurse prioritize recommending for this client?

Question: A 45-year-old client with no significant medical history informs the nurse they have been feeling more fatigued lately and attributes it to stress. Which health screening should the nurse prioritize recommending for this client?

Answer options:

• Annual colorectal cancer screening.
• Regular bone density scans (DEXA).
• Baseline electrocardiogram (ECG). ✅ Fasting lipid panel and blood glucose screening.

Correct answer: Fasting lipid panel and blood glucose screening.

Explanation: For a 45-year-old, fatigue can be a non-specific symptom of various conditions, and a fasting lipid panel and blood glucose screening are crucial for identifying early signs of dyslipidemia and type 2 diabetes, which are common and often asymptomatic conditions in this age group that can contribute to fatigue. While other screenings are important, these provide foundational information for common chronic diseases.