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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Cheddar cheese:
Cheddar cheese is high in fat, and individuals with a history of pancreatitis are often advised to limit their fat intake. High-fat foods can stimulate the pancreas to release digestive enzymes, potentially triggering or exacerbating pancreatitis.
B. Vegetable soup:
Depending on the ingredients, vegetable soup may or may not be high in fat. The key consideration is to choose soups that are not prepared with excessive amounts of fat or oil.
C. Noodles:
Noodles, by themselves, are not high in fat. However, the choice of sauce or toppings can impact the overall fat content of the meal. It's important to consider the entire composition of the dish.
D. Baked fish:
Baked fish is generally a lean protein source and is lower in fat compared to some other protein sources. Baked fish is often considered a suitable choice for individuals with a history of pancreatitis.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Hepatitis A does not infect the kidneys. Hepatitis A is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver, causing inflammation.
B. Manifestations of hepatitis A are indeed similar to flu-like symptoms. Common symptoms include fever, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
C. The incubation period for hepatitis A is typically 15 to 50 days, not 5 days. The incubation period is the time between exposure to the virus and the onset of symptoms.
D. A family history is not a significant risk factor for acquiring hepatitis A. Hepatitis A is primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route, often due to contaminated food or water. It is more commonly associated with exposure to the virus through contaminated environments or ingestion of contaminated food or water.
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