A nurse is caring for a 2-year-old child who has Clostridium difficile.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A rationale:

Elevated amylase is not typically associated with cirrhosis. Amylase is an enzyme produced by the pancreas and salivary glands, and elevated levels are more commonly associated with pancreatic disorders or acute pancreatitis.

Choice B rationale:

Decreased bilirubin is not an expected laboratory finding in cirrhosis. Cirrhosis often leads to impaired liver function, which can result in elevated bilirubin levels, causing jaundice.

Choice C rationale:

Elevated lipase is not a characteristic laboratory finding in cirrhosis. Lipase is an enzyme produced by the pancreas, and elevated levels are more often seen in pancreatic disorders or acute pancreatitis.

Choice D rationale:

The correct choice is D. Elevated ammonia levels are commonly associated with cirrhosis. In cirrhosis, the damaged liver is unable to effectively metabolize ammonia, leading to its accumulation in the blood. Elevated ammonia levels can result in hepatic encephalopathy, a neurological complication often seen in cirrhotic patients.

Choice A rationale:

Relocating the sensor every 8 hours is not necessary when obtaining oxygen saturation readings unless there is a specific clinical reason to do so, such as skin irritation or poor perfusion at the sensor site. Frequent relocation can cause unnecessary disruption for the patient.

Choice B rationale:

Waiting 10 seconds after placing the probe before obtaining the oxygen saturation reading is not required. Modern pulse oximeters provide real-time readings, and there is no need to wait after placing the probe. The reading is usually stable within seconds.

Choice C rationale:

Choosing a finger with a capillary refill time of less than 2 seconds is an essential consideration when obtaining oxygen saturation readings. Capillary refill time is a measure of peripheral perfusion, and choosing a finger with good perfusion ensures accurate oxygen saturation measurements.

Choice D rationale:

Placing the sensor probe on the same extremity as an electronic blood pressure cuff is generally acceptable. However, it is crucial to ensure that the sensor does not interfere with the blood pressure cuff's function and that it is securely attached to the patient's finger for accurate readings.