Which laboratory test result will the nurse monitor to evaluate the effects of therapy for a patient who has acute pancreatitis?
Potassium
Lipase
Calcium
Bilirubin
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Monitoring potassium levels is essential for various medical conditions, but it is not specifically used to evaluate the effects of therapy for acute pancreatitis. Potassium levels may be monitored to assess overall electrolyte balance and kidney function, but they do not provide direct information about pancreatic inflammation or damage.
Choice B reason: Monitoring lipase levels is crucial in evaluating the effects of therapy for a patient with acute pancreatitis. Lipase is an enzyme produced by the pancreas, and its levels rise significantly during an acute episode of pancreatitis. Elevated lipase levels are a sensitive and specific indicator of pancreatic inflammation and damage. By regularly measuring lipase levels, healthcare providers can assess the severity of the condition, monitor the patient's response to treatment, and make necessary adjustments to the therapeutic regimen.
Choice C reason: Calcium levels are not typically used to evaluate the effects of therapy for acute pancreatitis. Although hypercalcemia (high calcium levels) can be a risk factor for developing pancreatitis, monitoring calcium levels is not a standard method for assessing the effectiveness of treatment for the condition.
Choice D reason: Bilirubin levels are not directly related to the evaluation of therapy for acute pancreatitis. Bilirubin is a breakdown product of hemoglobin and is primarily used to assess liver function and diagnose conditions such as jaundice or liver disease. While liver function tests may be performed in patients with pancreatitis to rule out concurrent liver issues, bilirubin levels alone do not provide information about the effectiveness of therapy for pancreatitis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["D","E","F"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: A tongue blade is not typically necessary for a patient with status epilepticus. It is more commonly used for oral care or to check the throat, but it is not essential in this context.
Choice B reason: A urinary catheter is not necessary unless the patient has specific urinary retention issues or requires accurate measurement of urine output. It is not standard equipment for managing status epilepticus.
Choice C reason: A nasogastric tube is not typically required for status epilepticus unless there are specific gastrointestinal issues that need to be addressed. It is not standard equipment for managing status epilepticus.
Choice D reason: A suction set up is essential for a patient with status epilepticus to manage potential airway secretions and prevent aspiration. It ensures that the airway remains clear and reduces the risk of complications.
Choice E reason: An oxygen mask is crucial for a patient with status epilepticus to ensure adequate oxygenation. It helps maintain oxygen levels and supports respiratory function, especially if the patient experiences respiratory distress.
Choice F reason: Side-rail pads are important for patient safety, particularly for a patient with status epilepticus who may be at risk of falls or injury during seizures. They provide a protective barrier and help prevent accidental injury.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Cardiac dysrhythmias are not the primary concern in a patient with acute cholecystitis. Although severe pain can lead to stress on the cardiovascular system, it is not the main priority in this scenario. Hypotension can be a concern due to dehydration from vomiting, but pain management is addressed more comprehensively under fluid and electrolyte balance and infection control.
Choice B reason: Wound dehiscence is not relevant in this case as the patient has not undergone surgery yet. Fluid and electrolyte imbalance and hypotension are important considerations due to the patient’s nausea and vomiting, but wound dehiscence does not apply to her current state of care.
Choice C reason: The inadequate diet is a consideration due to the patient's inability to eat or drink, and hypotension is a risk due to dehydration. However, wound dehiscence is still not relevant since the patient has not had a surgical procedure yet. Preventing an inadequate diet is part of the broader management but not the immediate priority.
Choice D reason: Infection, fluid and electrolyte imbalance, and pain are the most relevant concerns for a patient with acute cholecystitis. The nasogastric tube and IV fluids are vital for managing her dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. The patient's high pain level (9/10) indicates severe discomfort that must be managed effectively. Additionally, with the insertion of a nasogastric tube and the risk of cholecystitis-related complications, preventing infection is a key priority.
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