Which manifestations (S&S) alert the nurse to the possibility of pancreatitis in the patient who has elevated serum amylase and lipase levels?

A. Hyperproteinemia and increased drug effect: In cirrhosis, hypoproteinemia (low protein levels) occurs due to decreased protein synthesis by the liver, and drug metabolism is often impaired, leading to increased drug effects, but hyperproteinemia is not a typical finding.

B. Hyperkalemia and fluid retention: While fluid retention is common due to hypoalbuminemia and portal hypertension, hyperkalemia is not a direct consequence of hepatocyte dysfunction.

C. Hypercortisolism and increased infection risk: Hypercortisolism is not typically associated with cirrhosis. However, increased infection risk is common due to compromised immune function.

D. An elevated blood glucose and ammonia level: In cirrhosis, the liver's ability to metabolize ammonia is impaired, leading to elevated levels. Additionally, impaired glucose metabolism can result in hyperglycemia.

A. Steroid injections will be administered daily: This is incorrect; steroid therapy may exacerbate Cushing's disease. The condition is often due to excessive production of cortisol, not a deficiency.

B. Weight gain and edema are present: Hyperaldosteronism, often associated with Cushing's syndrome, leads to sodium and water retention, resulting in weight gain and edema.

C. Painful leg cramps are common from hyperkalemia: Hyperaldosteronism typically causes hypokalemia, not hyperkalemia, leading to muscle cramps, not leg pain from hyperkalemia.

D. Decreased amount of body hair is frequently seen: Cushing's disease often leads to hirsutism (increased body hair), not a decrease.