A nurse is monitoring a client who was admitted for hypocalcemia. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

A. Prolonged PT/INR. Prolonged PT/INR may occur due to liver dysfunction or vitamin K deficiency, but it is not a direct result of pancreatitis. In pancreatitis, the liver is usually functioning normally unless there is concurrent liver disease.
B. Elevated lipase. Elevated lipase is a hallmark laboratory finding in pancreatitis. Lipase is an enzyme produced by the pancreas, and its levels rise significantly during episodes of pancreatitis, making it a key indicator in diagnosing the condition.
C. Elevated ammonia. Elevated ammonia levels are more commonly associated with liver dysfunction, such as hepatic encephalopathy, rather than pancreatitis. Pancreatitis primarily affects the digestive system, not the liver directly.
D. Decreased albumin. Decreased albumin can be seen in various conditions, including liver disease and malnutrition, but it is not a specific finding for pancreatitis. In acute pancreatitis, albumin levels may not be significantly affected, while chronic pancreatitis can lead to malabsorption and potentially lower albumin levels over time.

A. Use aseptic technique during wound care for the client. While using aseptic technique is essential for preventing infection during wound care, it is not the immediate priority upon admission. The nurse must first assess the client's airway and oxygenation status.
B. Obtain the client's oxygen saturation levels. Obtaining the client's oxygen saturation levels is the priority action. Clients with burns, especially those affecting the upper torso, may have compromised airway patency or inhalation injury. Assessing oxygen saturation is crucial for determining the need for supplemental oxygen or further airway interventions.
C. Check the client's WBC count. Checking the client's white blood cell (WBC) count is important for evaluating potential infection and overall health status, but it is not an immediate priority in the acute phase of burn management. The nurse should focus first on airway and respiratory assessment.
D. Regulate IV fluids to maintain the client's urinary output. Regulating IV fluids to maintain urinary output is an important action in managing burn clients, as fluid resuscitation is critical. However, it should be done after ensuring the client's airway and oxygenation are stable, as inadequate oxygenation could complicate fluid resuscitation efforts.