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A client with suspected pancreatitis asks the nurse about the diagnostic tests that may be performed. What should the nurse include in the response?

A.

"Imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT scan, and MRI may be used to visualize the pancreas."

B.

"Blood tests like complete blood count (CBC) and basic metabolic panel (BMP) are the primary tests for diagnosing pancreatitis."

C.

"Pancreatic biopsy is the gold standard for diagnosing pancreatitis."

D.

"There are no specific tests for diagnosing pancreatitis; it is based solely on clinical symptoms."

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A) Correct. Imaging studies like ultrasound, CT scan, and MRI are commonly used to visualize the pancreas and assess for signs of inflammation or other abnormalities.

B) Incorrect. While blood tests are important in the diagnostic process, they are not the primary tests for diagnosing pancreatitis. Elevated levels of amylase and lipase are commonly seen, but they are not exclusive to pancreatitis.

C) Incorrect. While a pancreatic biopsy may be performed in some cases, it is not considered the gold standard for diagnosing pancreatitis. It is usually reserved for more complex or uncertain cases.

D) Incorrect. There are specific diagnostic tests for pancreatitis, including imaging studies and blood tests. Clinical symptoms are important, but they alone are not sufficient for a definitive diagnosis.


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A) Incorrect. Excessive alcohol consumption is a significant risk factor for the development of pancreatitis.

B) Correct. Having a history of gallstones or gallbladder disease increases the risk of pancreatitis, as gallstones can obstruct the pancreatic duct, leading to inflammation.

C) Incorrect. Being physically inactive is not a direct risk factor for pancreatitis, but other factors such as obesity and high triglyceride levels, which may be associated with inactivity, can contribute to the risk.

D) Incorrect. Age and gender can play a role in the risk of developing pancreatitis. Older age and being male are associated with an increased risk.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) Incorrect. High levels of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia) are not a direct cause of pancreatitis.

B) Incorrect. Low levels of calcium in the blood (hypocalcemia) are not directly associated with an increased risk of developing pancreatitis.

C) Correct. In pancreatitis, calcium can accumulate in the pancreas and form deposits, contributing to tissue damage and inflammation.

D) Incorrect. Calcium does play a role in the development and progression of pancreatitis, particularly in the form of calcium deposits within the pancreatic tissue.

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