A nurse is caring for a newly admitted client.

Exhibits

A nurse notes the client's condition and initiates the following action. Complete the diagram by dragging from the choices below to specify what condition the client is most likely experiencing, two actions the nurse should take to address that condition, and two parameters the nurse should monitor to assess the client's progress

Rationale:

• Potential Condition: The client developed new onset of severe, frequent diarrhea after receiving IV antibiotics (cefazolin), along with fever, abdominal cramping, dehydration (dry mucous membranes), and hyperactive bowel sounds. These are hallmark features of Clostridioides difficile colitis.
• Actions to Take:
  • Contact precautions (gown and gloves) are essential to prevent transmission since C. difficile is highly contagious.
  • IV fluids help correct dehydration and electrolyte losses caused by frequent diarrhea.
• Parameters to Monitor:
  • Serum potassium should be monitored because diarrhea causes large potassium losses, risking hypokalemia.
  • Blood pressure should be tracked closely since dehydration and electrolyte loss can lead to hypotension and hemodynamic instability.

Rationale:
A. RBC count is not typically affected by acute pancreatitis unless there is bleeding, which is uncommon.

B. Serum amylase is elevated in acute pancreatitis because pancreatic inflammation leads to the release of digestive enzymes into the bloodstream. Amylase levels usually rise within 6–12 hours of symptom onset and remain elevated for 3–5 days.

C. Calcium levels often decrease in acute pancreatitis due to fat saponification, not increase.

D. Magnesium levels are usually normal or decreased, but elevation is not a typical finding in pancreatitis.