The nurse receives report for a client with acute pancreatitis on hospital day 2: NPO with NGT to low intermittent suction, VS: 110/60, 99.2°F-97- 22, 0.9% NS infusing at 125 mL/hour, and IV antibiotics have been started. Chart review reveals the following current laboratory results. Which is a priority for the nurse to report to the healthcare provider?

WBC 10,000/mm3 (5,000-10,000 mm3)

Serum potassium 3.5 mEq/L (3.5-5.0 mEq/L)

Serum albumin 4.8 g/dL (3.5-5 g/dL)

Lipase 900 u/L (20-180 u/L)

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A) While an elevated WBC count may indicate infection, it is not unexpected in acute pancreatitis.
B) Serum potassium within normal range does not require immediate intervention.

C) Serum albumin within normal range does not require immediate intervention.

D) Lipase levels significantly elevated above the normal range indicate ongoing pancreatic inflammation and may require intervention or adjustment of treatment.

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Correct Answer is ["A","B","C"]

Explanation

A) PT is prolonged in cirrhosis due to impaired synthesis of clotting factors by the liver, making it important to monitor for bleeding risk.
B) Serum albumin levels decrease in cirrhosis due to impaired liver function, reflecting the client's nutritional status and liver synthetic function.
C) Elevated serum ammonia levels can indicate hepatic encephalopathy, a complication of cirrhosis characterized by altered mental status.
D) Troponin is not typically evaluated in cirrhosis assessment; it is a cardiac marker used to assess for myocardial infarction.
E) Serum lipase is not typically evaluated in cirrhosis assessment; it is a pancreatic enzyme used to diagnose pancreatitis.

A. Limit activity B. Encourage a high carbohydrate, high-fat diet C. Monitor for weight loss D. Administration of pancrelipase E. Eliminate alcohol intake

Correct Answer is ["C","D","E"]

Explanation

A) Limited activity is not typically necessary unless specified by a physician.

B) A low-fat diet is usually recommended for a client with chronic pancreatitis.

C) Weight loss in chronic pancreatitis is common due to the risk of malnutrition and malabsorption.
D) Administration of pancrelipase is essential for aiding digestion if the pancreas is not producing enough enzymes.
E) Elimination of alcohol intake is critical to prevent further damage to the pancreas.

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse should evaluate results of which laboratory tests while caring for a client who has cirrhosis of the liver? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer is ["A","B","C"]

Explanation

The nurse is providing care to a client admitted with chronic pancreatitis. Which items are appropriate to include in the discharge teaching for this client? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer is ["C","D","E"]

Explanation

A nurse is planning care for a client who has hepatitis B. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan?

The nurse notes these laboratory results for a client with cirrhosis: PT 20 seconds (11-12.5 sec) and serum ammonia 35 mcg/dL (15-45 mcg/dL). What action by the nurse would be a priority?

An adult client is admitted to the emergency department with symptoms of acute pancreatitis. Which data support this diagnosis?

The nurse is admitting a client with liver disease who presents with dyspnea, weight gain and abdominal distention. Which order would the nurse anticipate?

A client with cirrhosis has the following laboratory results: albumin 4.9 g/dl. (3.5-5 g/dL), PT 13 seconds (11-12.5 sec), and serum ammonia 68 mcg/dL (15-45 mcg/dL). Based on this information, what is the nurse's next action?

A client with a history of chronic pancreatitis reports weight loss of 10 pounds over the last month and foul smelling stools. What would be a priority action for the nurse to take?

The nurse is preparing discharge teaching for a client who has had a paracentesis. What information should be included in the education session?