A nurse admits a patient to the emergency department who reports nausea and vomiting that worsens when he lies down.
Antacids do not help.
The provider suspects acute pancreatitis.
Which of the following laboratory test results should the nurse expect to see?
Decreased serum lipase.
Increased serum calcium.
Increased serum amylase.
Decreased WBC.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice C rationale
In the context of suspected acute pancreatitis, an increase in serum amylase is one of the key laboratory findings. Pancreatitis is associated with inflammation of the pancreas, which can result in the release of digestive enzymes such as amylase and lipase into the bloodstream.
Therefore, elevated levels of these enzymes are often used as markers for acute pancreatitis.
Choice A rationale
Decreased serum lipase is not typically associated with acute pancreatitis. In fact, an increase in serum lipase is more commonly seen in acute pancreatitis. Lipase is a digestive enzyme produced by the pancreas, and its levels in the blood can rise when the pancreas is inflamed.
Choice B rationale
Increased serum calcium is not typically associated with acute pancreatitis. While hypercalcemia, or high calcium levels, can be a cause of pancreatitis, it is not a typical finding in the blood tests of patients with acute pancreatitis.
Choice D rationale
Decreased white blood cell (WBC) count is not typically associated with acute pancreatitis. In fact, an increase in WBC count can sometimes be seen in acute pancreatitis due to the body’s inflammatory response to the condition. Hypothyroidism Explore
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Ceasing from smoking and consuming alcohol is crucial for patients who have been treated for acute pancreatitis. Both smoking and alcohol consumption can cause further damage to the pancreas and lead to recurrent episodes of pancreatitis.
Choice B rationale
While wearing tight-fitting clothing can be uncomfortable for some individuals, it does not have a direct impact on the recovery from acute pancreatitis.
Choice C rationale
Stopping exercise is not typically recommended for patients recovering from acute pancreatitis. Regular physical activity is generally beneficial for overall health, although a healthcare provider may recommend specific types or amounts of exercise based on the individual’s condition.
Choice D rationale
While practicing good dental hygiene is important for overall health, it does not specifically relate to the treatment or prevention of acute pancreatitis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Telling the patient that their liver has been destroyed by alcohol might not be the most effective way to motivate change. It could potentially lead to feelings of hopelessness and deter the patient from seeking help.
Choice B rationale
Introducing the patient to other people might not directly motivate them to change their alcohol consumption habits. However, it could potentially provide them with a supportive network that could help them in their journey to sobriety.
Choice C rationale
Educating the patient about the disease can be very beneficial. Understanding the effects of alcohol on their liver and the potential consequences of continued drinking can motivate them to change.
Choice D rationale
Instructing the patient to cut back to drinking one drink per day might not be the best advice for a patient with cirrhosis of the liver. Complete abstinence from alcohol is usually recommended for these patients to prevent further liver damage.
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