A nurse admits a client to the emergency department who reports nausea, vomiting, and epigastric pain that worsens when lying down. The provider suspects acute pancreatitis. Which of the following laboratory test results should the nurse expect to see?
Increased serum amylase
Decreased WBC count
Increased serum calcium
Decreased serum lipase
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:Increased serum amylase is a common finding in acute pancreatitis as it is released from the inflamed pancreas[^10^].
Choice B reason:A decreased WBC count is not typically associated with acute pancreatitis; an increased count may indicate infection or inflammation.
Choice C reason:Serum calcium is often decreased in acute pancreatitis due to fat saponification and hypoalbuminemia.
Choice D reason:Decreased serum lipase would not be expected; increased levels are indicative of acute pancreatitis, similar to amylase[^10^].
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Atropine is not typically used for the treatment of pulmonary embolism. It is an anticholinergic drug that is primarily used to treat bradycardia (slow heart rate) and as part of the management of organophosphate poisoning. It does not have a role in the management of pulmonary embolism, which requires anticoagulation to prevent further clot formation.
Choice B reason: Furosemide is a loop diuretic commonly used to treat fluid overload conditions such as heart failure or edema. While it can help relieve symptoms associated with fluid accumulation, it does not treat the underlying cause of a pulmonary embolism, which is a blood clot in the pulmonary arteries.
Choice C reason: Heparin is an anticoagulant medication that is commonly used in the initial treatment of pulmonary embolism. It works by preventing the formation of new blood clots and stopping existing clots from getting bigger. Heparin is often administered intravenously or subcutaneously and is a key component in the management of pulmonary embolism.
Choice D reason: Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid that is used to reduce inflammation in various conditions, such as allergic reactions, asthma, and certain types of arthritis. It is not used as a primary treatment for pulmonary embolism, as it does not have anticoagulant properties.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Weight gain is not typically a direct cause of chronic pancreatitis. While obesity can be a risk factor for developing pancreatitis, it is not considered a primary cause.
Choice B reason: The use of alcohol is the most common cause of chronic pancreatitis. Long-term alcohol misuse can lead to the development of chronic pancreatitis, accounting for about 70% of cases³.
Choice C reason: Abdominal pain that is relieved with food or antacids is more indicative of conditions like peptic ulcers rather than chronic pancreatitis.
Choice D reason:Exposure to occupational chemicals has not been established as a primary cause of chronic pancreatitis. While certain toxins can affect the pancreas, they are not a common cause of chronic pancreatitis.
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