To determine treatment effectiveness in a patient with pancreatitis, the nurse should monitor which of these tests?
Amylase and lipase.
Hematocrit and hemoglobin.
Red blood cell count.
Serum uric acid.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Monitoring amylase and lipase levels is the best way to determine the effectiveness of treatment in a patient with pancreatitis. These enzymes are produced by the pancreas, and their levels in the blood increase significantly during an episode of pancreatitis. As treatment progresses and the inflammation of the pancreas decreases, the levels of these enzymes should return to normal. Therefore, checking the levels of amylase and lipase is a direct indicator of the patient's response to treatment.
Choice B reason: Hematocrit and hemoglobin levels are important for assessing overall blood volume and oxygen-carrying capacity, but they are not specific indicators of pancreatitis treatment effectiveness. While these levels can provide information about the patient's general health and hydration status, they do not specifically reflect changes in pancreatic inflammation.
Choice C reason: Red blood cell count is another measure of the blood's oxygen-carrying capacity and overall health, but like hematocrit and hemoglobin, it is not specific to pancreatitis. Changes in red blood cell count can occur due to various factors, but they do not provide direct information about the effectiveness of pancreatitis treatment.
Choice D reason: Serum uric acid levels are typically monitored in conditions such as gout or kidney stones, and they are not related to pancreatitis. Monitoring serum uric acid would not provide useful information about the patient's response to pancreatitis treatment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Monitoring serum potassium and sodium levels is important in many clinical situations, but it is not the primary concern when administering Vancomycin. Vancomycin can cause nephrotoxicity, which is best assessed by monitoring kidney function indicators such as serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels.
Choice B reason: Temperature and blood pressure should be monitored regularly in patients receiving IV medications, especially antibiotics, to detect signs of infection or adverse reactions. However, the specific priority when administering Vancomycin is monitoring for nephrotoxicity, which is more accurately assessed through serum creatinine and BUN levels.
Choice C reason: Daily weight and edema monitoring are important for assessing fluid balance and potential heart or kidney issues. While useful, these are not the primary markers for detecting complications related to Vancomycin administration.
Choice D reason: Serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels are critical indicators of kidney function. Vancomycin can cause nephrotoxicity, so monitoring these levels helps detect any signs of kidney injury early, ensuring appropriate adjustments to the medication regimen to prevent further damage.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Encouraging the patient to continue an exercise routine such as weightlifting is not appropriate for a patient with esophageal varices. Weightlifting and other strenuous activities can increase intra-abdominal pressure, which may lead to the rupture of the varices and cause severe bleeding.
Choice B reason: Advising the patient to avoid straining at stools is the correct intervention. Straining during bowel movements can increase intra-abdominal pressure and the risk of rupturing the esophageal varices. The nurse should encourage the patient to maintain soft stools through a high-fiber diet, adequate hydration, and possibly stool softeners to prevent straining.
Choice C reason: Providing hot liquids as desired is not recommended for patients with esophageal varices. Hot liquids can cause vasodilation and potentially increase the risk of bleeding from the varices. Patients should be advised to consume beverages at moderate temperatures.
Choice D reason: Advising the patient to limit themselves to one alcoholic drink per day is not appropriate. Alcohol consumption can worsen liver disease, increase portal hypertension, and exacerbate esophageal varices. Patients with esophageal varices should be advised to avoid alcohol completely to reduce the risk of complications.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.