A nurse is caring for a client with severe pancreatitis. What should the nurse monitor closely in this client?

A) Correct. Applying a heating pad to the abdomen can help alleviate discomfort in clients with pancreatitis by promoting relaxation and improving blood flow to the area.

B) Incorrect. Regularly administering over-the-counter pain relievers may not be appropriate, as they can have side effects and may not adequately address the pain associated with chronic pancreatitis.

C) Incorrect. Consuming high-fat foods is not advisable for clients with pancreatitis, as they can exacerbate symptoms.

D) Incorrect. Limiting physical activity may not be the most effective approach for managing pain in clients with chronic pancreatitis. Gentle movement and exercise, as tolerated, can be beneficial.

A) Incorrect. Serum amylase is a commonly used test for pancreatitis, but it is not as specific or sensitive as some other tests.

B) Incorrect. Serum lipase is also used in the diagnosis of pancreatitis, but endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is considered more sensitive and specific.

C) Incorrect. Abdominal ultrasound is a valuable imaging tool for visualizing the pancreas, but it may not always provide as detailed information as an endoscopic ultrasound.

D) Correct. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)

is considered a highly specific and sensitive indicator of pancreatic injury. It allows for detailed imaging of the pancreas and surrounding structures.