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 A
Explanation
A. Avoid foods high in fat:
Dietary fat can trigger the gallbladder to release bile, and for individuals with chronic cholecystitis, high-fat meals can exacerbate symptoms such as biliary colic. Therefore, advising the client to avoid foods high in fat can help manage symptoms.
B. Include foods high in starch and proteins:
While protein-rich foods can be included in the diet, a high-fat content should be avoided. Starches can be a part of a balanced diet, but it's essential to focus on low-fat options.
C. Include foods high in fiber:
Including foods high in fiber is generally a good recommendation for digestive health. However, the emphasis here is on avoiding high-fat foods, and the recommendation for fiber should not overshadow the importance of minimizing dietary fat.
D. Avoid foods high in sodium:
Sodium restriction may be relevant for certain health conditions, but it is not the primary dietary consideration for managing chronic cholecystitis. The emphasis in this context is on reducing dietary fat.

Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Provide oral hygiene.
Providing oral hygiene is important for the client's comfort and overall well-being. However, in the context of acute pancreatitis, the immediate priority is to address the gastrointestinal symptoms and prevent further pancreatic stimulation.
B. Assist the client to a side-lying position.
Assisting the client to a side-lying position can be beneficial for comfort and may help prevent complications such as aspiration. However, it is not the immediate priority after treating the pain. Withholding oral fluids and food takes precedence in the initial management of acute pancreatitis.
C. Auscultate the client's lungs.
Auscultating the client's lungs is a routine nursing assessment and is important for respiratory monitoring. However, in the context of acute pancreatitis, the primary focus is on addressing gastrointestinal symptoms, and respiratory assessment becomes more critical if respiratory distress is suspected.
D. Withhold oral fluids and food.
Withholding oral fluids and food is the priority intervention after treating the pain in acute pancreatitis. This is done to reduce pancreatic stimulation, allowing the pancreas to rest and recover. NPO (nothing by mouth) status is often initiated in the early management of acute pancreatitis.

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