A nurse is reviewing the laboratory data of a client diagnosed with acute pancreatitis. The nurse should expect to find an elevation of which of following values?
Calcium
Magnesium
Amylase
RBC count
The Correct Answer is C
A. Calcium:
While calcium levels can be affected in pancreatitis, it is more commonly associated with a decrease in calcium levels due to fat necrosis and the formation of calcium soaps. However, the primary electrolyte disturbance is more likely to involve magnesium.
B. Magnesium:
Magnesium levels may be decreased in acute pancreatitis due to factors such as vomiting, malabsorption, and poor oral intake. Hypomagnesemia is a possible consequence, but it's not as specific to pancreatitis as the elevation of amylase.
C. Amylase:
Elevated amylase levels are a hallmark of acute pancreatitis. Amylase is an enzyme released by the pancreas, and its elevation in the blood is a key diagnostic marker for pancreatitis.
D. RBC count:
Acute pancreatitis does not typically result in a significant impact on the red blood cell (RBC) count. The elevation of amylase and lipase levels, along with imaging studies, is more indicative of pancreatitis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Clean the peristomal skin four times a day:
While keeping the peristomal skin clean is essential, cleaning it four times a day might be excessive and could lead to skin irritation. Typically, cleansing the area when changing the pouch or as needed is sufficient.
B. Hold pressure on the skin barrier for 10 to 15 seconds to secure the seal:
Applying gentle pressure upon application can assist in securing the seal, but the duration might vary based on the manufacturer's recommendations. It's important not to overly press or manipulate the barrier excessively, as it could cause skin trauma.
C. Empty the pouch when it is 1/3 full:
This is the correct advice. Regularly emptying the pouch prevents leakage and ensures the pouch does not become too heavy or cause skin irritation from weight or pressure.
D. Expect firm fecal content:
With an ileostomy, the fecal content tends to be more liquid compared to other types of ostomies like colostomies, so expecting firm fecal content might not be accurate for this situation.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Investigate the client's emotional concerns:
While addressing emotional concerns is important, assessing electrolyte imbalances and physiological stability takes precedence in managing an acute exacerbation of ulcerative colitis.
B. Check the client's perianal skin integrity:
Assessing perianal skin integrity is crucial, especially in inflammatory bowel disease, but it might not be the immediate priority compared to evaluating electrolyte imbalances.
C. Obtain a dietary history from the client:
Although dietary history is relevant for managing ulcerative colitis, the urgency lies in assessing and managing potential electrolyte imbalances due to the exacerbation of the condition.
D. Review the client's electrolyte values:
This is the correct action. During an acute exacerbation of ulcerative colitis, the client is at risk of electrolyte imbalances due to diarrhea, dehydration, and potential fluid and electrolyte losses. Promptly reviewing the electrolyte values helps identify any imbalances that might require immediate intervention.
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