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 B
Explanation
A. Limit fluid intake not related to meals:
While staying hydrated is important, it's generally recommended to limit fluid intake not related to meals to avoid overfilling the stomach and putting excess pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). However, this is not as specific to GERD management as the option B.
B. Avoid eating within 3 hours of bedtime:
This is a key recommendation for managing GERD. Eating close to bedtime increases the likelihood of stomach contents refluxing into the esophagus when lying down. Waiting at least 3 hours after eating before lying down can help prevent symptoms.
C. Chew on mint leaves to relieve indigestion:
Mint, including mint leaves, can relax the LES, potentially worsening GERD symptoms. It is not recommended for managing GERD.
D. Season foods with black pepper:
While black pepper itself is not a common trigger for GERD, highly spicy or peppery foods can sometimes exacerbate symptoms in individuals with GERD. It's advisable to pay attention to personal triggers and adjust the diet accordingly.
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.
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