The emergency department nurse can expect to see which assessment cues in the patient with acute pancreatitis? Select all that apply.
Fever.
Gray-blue discoloration of the flank or umbilical area.
Hypertension.
Decreased amylase level.
Nausea and vomiting.
Severe abdominal pain.
Correct Answer : A,B,E,F
Choice A reason: Fever is a common sign of acute pancreatitis and indicates an inflammatory response. Inflammation of the pancreas can trigger the release of cytokines and other inflammatory mediators, leading to an elevated body temperature. This is a common symptom observed in many cases of acute pancreatitis and suggests an ongoing inflammatory process.
Choice B reason: Gray-blue discoloration of the flank or umbilical area, also known as Grey Turner's sign and Cullen's sign respectively, indicates bleeding and severe inflammation within the pancreas. These signs are indicative of retroperitoneal hemorrhage or pancreatic necrosis, which are severe complications of acute pancreatitis. The presence of such discoloration is a significant finding that suggests a more serious form of the condition.
Choice C reason: Hypertension is not typically associated with acute pancreatitis. In fact, patients with acute pancreatitis are more likely to experience hypotension due to fluid shifts, inflammatory responses, and potential hemorrhage. Monitoring blood pressure is important in these patients to manage any potential complications.
Choice D reason: Decreased amylase level is not an expected finding in acute pancreatitis. Typically, acute pancreatitis is associated with elevated levels of pancreatic enzymes such as amylase and lipase due to inflammation and damage to the pancreatic cells, which release these enzymes into the bloodstream.
Choice E reason: Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms in acute pancreatitis. The inflammation of the pancreas and the associated pain can stimulate the vomiting center in the brain and lead to nausea and vomiting. These symptoms are often severe and can significantly affect the patient's comfort and hydration status.
Choice F reason: Severe abdominal pain is one of the hallmark signs of acute pancreatitis. The pain is typically located in the upper abdomen and may radiate to the back. It is often described as constant and severe, and can be exacerbated by eating or lying flat. Effective pain management is a critical aspect of caring for patients with acute pancreatitis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Providing at least 5000 kcal/day is essential for a patient with burn injuries. Burns significantly increase the body's metabolic rate and caloric needs to support the healing process and prevent catabolism. Ensuring an adequate caloric intake helps meet the energy demands required for tissue repair and recovery.
Choice B reason: Starting an oral diet on the first day may not be appropriate for all burn patients, particularly those with extensive burns or those who are not yet stable. Nutrition needs should be carefully assessed, and feeding may begin via alternative methods such as enteral nutrition until the patient is ready for oral intake.
Choice C reason: Administering a diet high in protein is crucial for burn patients, as protein is essential for wound healing, maintaining lean body mass, and supporting the immune system. Protein intake should be increased to help repair damaged tissues and promote recovery.
Choice D reason: Collaborating with a registered dietitian is important to create an individualized nutrition plan that meets the specific needs of the burn patient. A dietitian can provide expertise in calculating caloric and protein requirements, recommending appropriate supplements, and monitoring the patient's nutritional status.
Choice E reason: Offering frequent high-calorie snacks helps ensure that the patient meets their increased caloric needs. Small, frequent meals and snacks can be more manageable for patients with reduced appetite or those who have difficulty consuming large meals. High-calorie snacks provide additional energy to support healing and recovery.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Decreased cardiac arrhythmias are not the primary desired effect of dobutamine in heart failure patients. While dobutamine can have some effects on heart rhythm, its main action is to increase the strength of the heart's contractions.
Choice B reason: Increased myocardial contractility is the correct and desired effect of dobutamine. Dobutamine is a positive inotropic agent, meaning it increases the force of the heart's contractions. This is particularly beneficial in heart failure patients as it helps improve cardiac output and the effectiveness of the heart as a pump, thus alleviating symptoms of heart failure and improving organ perfusion.
Choice C reason: Decreased electrical conductivity in the heart is not an effect of dobutamine. In fact, dobutamine can increase the risk of arrhythmias due to its stimulating effects on the heart. The drug works by enhancing the contractility of the heart muscle rather than altering the electrical conduction system.
Choice D reason: Dilated coronary arteries are not a primary effect of dobutamine. While the drug may have some vasodilatory properties, especially at higher doses, its primary role is to enhance myocardial contractility rather than directly dilate the coronary arteries.
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