A client with a history of chronic pancreatitis reports weight loss of 10 pounds over the last month and foul smelling stools. What would be a priority action for the nurse to take?
Review diet history
Obtain a dietary consult
Administer IV fluids
Send stool for fecal fat
The Correct Answer is D
A) While reviewing the diet history is important to understand nutritional intake and habits, it is not the priority action in this case.
B) Consulting a dietitian is important but should follow an assessment that identifies the specific issue causing the symptoms.
C) This action may be necessary if the patient is dehydrated but doesn’t address the primary concern of foul-smelling stools and weight loss.
D) This test is crucial as it helps confirm the diagnosis of malabsorption, which is likely given the patient’s history of chronic pancreatitis and symptoms described. This would be the priority to confirm the cause of the symptoms.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Chronic damage to the pancreas can lead to diabetes mellitus due to the destruction of insulin-producing cells.
B) Jaundice is typically associated with liver disease, not directly linked with chronic pancreatitis.
C) Ascites is a complication of liver disease, not typically a direct result of chronic pancreatitis.
D) While steatorrhea is a symptom of chronic pancreatitis due to malabsorption of fats, it is not a complication but rather a direct effect of the enzyme insufficiency.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Monitoring intake and output (I&O) is crucial for understanding the patient's fluid balance, especially after 24 hours of vomiting, which could lead to dehydration. However, it is important for fluid balance but not the immediate next step.
B) Checking blood pressure can provide immediate information on the patient's hemodynamic status and potential hypovolemia due to fluid loss; thus, it should be assessed immediately.
C) Assessing pain level is important for comfort, but stabilization of vital signs takes precedence.
D) Measuring oxygen saturation is useful but less critical than assessing for potential hypotension due to dehydration.
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