A nurse is caring for a client who has pleural effusion and has undergone thoracentesis.
The nurse should identify which of the following findings as indicative of an infection?

Choice A rationale

Decreased serum lipase is not expected in acute pancreatitis; rather, lipase levels are typically elevated due to pancreatic enzyme leakage into the bloodstream.

Choice B rationale

Increased serum calcium is not a typical finding in acute pancreatitis; instead, hypocalcemia can occur due to fat necrosis and soap formation.

Choice C rationale

Decreased WBC is not expected; an elevated WBC count is common due to the inflammatory response associated with pancreatitis.

Choice D rationale

Increased serum amylase is a hallmark of acute pancreatitis as the damaged pancreas releases more amylase into the blood.

Choice A rationale:

The Glasgow Coma Scale score has decreased from 14 to 12, indicating a decline in the client's level of consciousness. This finding requires immediate attention as it may signify worsening neurological status or an underlying condition such as metabolic disturbances, hypoxia, or intracranial pathology.

Choice C rationale:

The bicarbonate level is 13 mEq/L, which is significantly lower than the normal range of 21-28 mEq/L. This indicates metabolic acidosis, a condition where the blood is too acidic. It requires immediate intervention to prevent severe complications such as shock or organ failure.

Choice F rationale:

The client's blood pressure readings show hypotension with a supine blood pressure of 100/70 mm Hg and sitting blood pressure of 85/50 mm Hg. This suggests hemodynamic instability, which could be due to dehydration, sepsis, or other critical conditions requiring urgent treatment.

Choice G rationale:

The ECG findings indicate tachycardia with a prolonged PR interval, widened QRS complex, and peaked T waves. These are signs of hyperkalemia, a potentially life-threatening condition requiring immediate attention to prevent cardiac arrest.

Choice H rationale:

The sodium level is 152 mEq/L, which is higher than the normal range of 136-145 mEq/L, indicating hypernatremia. This electrolyte imbalance can lead to severe neurological symptoms and requires prompt correction to prevent complications such as seizures or coma.