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) Cirrhosis can lead to coagulopathy due to impaired synthesis of clotting factors by the liver, putting the client at high risk for bleeding.
B) While clients with cirrhosis may experience fatigue, it is not the priority problem indicated by the assessment data provided.
C) Decreased appetite and jaundice may affect nutritional status, but they do not pose an immediate threat compared to the risk of bleeding.
D) Jaundice can lead to pruritus and increased risk of skin breakdown, but it is not the priority problem indicated by the assessment data provided.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) While an elevated WBC count may indicate infection, it is not unexpected in acute pancreatitis.
B) Serum potassium within normal range does not require immediate intervention.
C) Serum albumin within normal range does not require immediate intervention.
D) Lipase levels significantly elevated above the normal range indicate ongoing pancreatic inflammation and may require intervention or adjustment of treatment.
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