A client with a history of chronic pancreatitis reports weight loss of 10 pounds over the last month and foul smelling stools. What would be a priority action for the nurse to take?
Review diet history
Obtain a dietary consult
Administer IV fluids
Send stool for fecal fat
The Correct Answer is D
A) While reviewing the diet history is important to understand nutritional intake and habits, it is not the priority action in this case.
B) Consulting a dietitian is important but should follow an assessment that identifies the specific issue causing the symptoms.
C) This action may be necessary if the patient is dehydrated but doesn’t address the primary concern of foul-smelling stools and weight loss.
D) This test is crucial as it helps confirm the diagnosis of malabsorption, which is likely given the patient’s history of chronic pancreatitis and symptoms described. This would be the priority to confirm the cause of the symptoms.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Elevated serum ammonia levels can lead to hepatic encephalopathy, which affects mental status and consciousness, making this the priority assessment.
B) The PT is slightly prolonged but not alarmingly high; bleeding is less of a concern compared to the elevated ammonia.
C) This action is important in assessing fluid accumulation but is not as critical as assessing mental status in this scenario.
D) While part of a comprehensive abdominal assessment, this is not the most critical action given the elevated ammonia level.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Gallstones are a leading cause of acute pancreatitis as they can block the pancreatic duct.
B) While inflammation of the duodenum can cause abdominal symptoms, it does not directly lead to acute pancreatitis.
C) Diabetes results from the dysfunction of the pancreas after damage but does not cause acute pancreatitis.
D) Hepatitis C affects the liver and does not directly cause pancreatitis.
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