A nurse is reviewing the laboratory data of a client diagnosed with acute pancreatitis. The nurse should expect to find an elevation of which of following values?
Calcium
Magnesium
Amylase
RBC count
The Correct Answer is C
A. Calcium:
While calcium levels can be affected in pancreatitis, it is more commonly associated with a decrease in calcium levels due to fat necrosis and the formation of calcium soaps. However, the primary electrolyte disturbance is more likely to involve magnesium.
B. Magnesium:
Magnesium levels may be decreased in acute pancreatitis due to factors such as vomiting, malabsorption, and poor oral intake. Hypomagnesemia is a possible consequence, but it's not as specific to pancreatitis as the elevation of amylase.
C. Amylase:
Elevated amylase levels are a hallmark of acute pancreatitis. Amylase is an enzyme released by the pancreas, and its elevation in the blood is a key diagnostic marker for pancreatitis.
D. RBC count:
Acute pancreatitis does not typically result in a significant impact on the red blood cell (RBC) count. The elevation of amylase and lipase levels, along with imaging studies, is more indicative of pancreatitis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "Wear compression stockings daily":
Compression stockings are not directly related to preventing the complications of retinopathy and nephropathy in diabetes. They are more commonly recommended for managing conditions like venous insufficiency and preventing blood clots.
B. "Have an eye examination once per year":
While regular eye examinations are important for monitoring and early detection of diabetic retinopathy, maintaining stable blood glucose levels is more directly related to preventing the progression of retinopathy.
C. "Maintain stable blood glucose levels":
This is the correct instruction. Stable blood glucose levels are crucial in preventing and minimizing the long-term complications of diabetes, including retinopathy (damage to the retina) and nephropathy (kidney damage). Consistent blood glucose control is key to reducing the risk of complications.
D. "Examine your feet carefully every day":
Daily foot examinations are essential for preventing diabetic foot complications, including ulcers and infections. While important for overall diabetes management, foot care is not specifically directed at preventing retinopathy and nephropathy.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Applying a cold pack to the client's upper arm is not the first action. The priority is to assess and address the cause of the edema. Cold packs may be used for comfort, but they do not address the underlying issue.
B. Removing the PICC line is not the first action. Before considering removal, it is essential to assess the extent and cause of the edema. Removing the line without proper evaluation could lead to premature discontinuation of necessary treatment.
C. Notifying the provider who inserted the PICC line is important, but it is not the first action. The nurse needs to assess and intervene promptly. The provider should be informed after initial actions are taken.
D. Stopping the infusion and measuring the circumference of both upper arms is the first action. This helps determine the extent of the edema and whether it is related to the infusion. It is crucial to assess for complications such as infiltration or extravasation of the TPN solution.
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