A patient is being cared for in the emergency department with acute abdominal pain and a provisional diagnosis of pancreatitis.
The nurse assesses the patient and obtains the results from laboratory studies.
Which information is most valuable in reporting the patient’s status to the healthcare provider?

Choice A rationale:

Wild rice is naturally gluten-free. It is not a grain, but rather a semi-aquatic grass seed. It is safe for individuals with celiac disease to consume.

Wild rice is a good source of nutrients. It is high in fiber, protein, and antioxidants, and it contains a variety of vitamins and minerals, including manganese, phosphorus, magnesium, and zinc. These nutrients can help to support overall health and well-being.

Wild rice can be a versatile ingredient in many dishes. It can be used in salads, soups, stews, pilafs, and even desserts.

Choice B rationale:

Oatmeal is not gluten-free. It is made from oats, which are a type of cereal grain that contains gluten. Individuals with celiac disease must avoid gluten, as it can trigger an autoimmune reaction that damages the small intestine.

Even small amounts of gluten can cause harm. Consuming even a small amount of oatmeal can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, fatigue, and headache in individuals with celiac disease.

Long-term damage can occur. If individuals with celiac disease continue to consume gluten, it can lead to long-term health problems, such as malnutrition, osteoporosis, and infertility.

Choice C rationale:

Corn chips are typically gluten-free. However, it is important to check the label to be sure, as some brands may contain gluten- containing ingredients, such as wheat flour or barley malt.

Reading labels is essential. Individuals with celiac disease should always read food labels carefully to ensure that products are gluten-free.

Choice D rationale:

Potatoes are naturally gluten-free. They are a safe and healthy food choice for individuals with celiac disease.

Potatoes are a versatile and nutritious food. They are a good source of carbohydrates, fiber, potassium, vitamin C, and other nutrients.

Choice A rationale:

Observing the skin for lesions is not a specific technique for assessing early signs of rheumatoid arthritis. While RA can sometimes manifest with skin lesions, they are not typically present in the early stages of the disease. Moreover, skin lesions can be indicative of a wide range of other conditions, making them a less reliable indicator of RA.

Choice B rationale:

Palpating the lymph nodes is also not a specific technique for assessing early signs of rheumatoid arthritis. Lymph node enlargement can occur in various inflammatory conditions, including infections and autoimmune diseases. It is not a characteristic feature of early RA.

Choice C rationale:

Palpating large joints for nodules is a technique used to assess for rheumatoid arthritis, but it is more likely to detect nodules in later stages of the disease. Nodules are typically firm, non-tender bumps that develop under the skin around joints. They are often found in areas like the elbows, knuckles, and fingers. However, they may not be present in the early stages of RA.

Choice D rationale:

Observing the client's fingers is the most appropriate technique for assessing early signs of rheumatoid arthritis. This is because the fingers are often the first joints to be affected by the disease. Early signs of RA in the fingers can include:

Swelling of the finger joints, particularly the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) and metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints. Tenderness and pain in the finger joints, especially upon movement.

Stiffness in the finger joints, which is often worse in the mornings and after periods of inactivity. Redness or warmth in the finger joints.

Difficulty bending or straightening the fingers.