A nurse admits a client to the emergency department who reports nausea and vomiting that worsens when he lies down. Antacids do not help. The provider suspects acute pancreatitis. Which of the following laboratory test results should the nurse expect to see?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Increased serum amylase. In acute pancreatitis, the pancreas becomes inflamed and releases enzymes like amylase into the bloodstream. Amylase levels rise significantly in this condition. Elevated serum amylase is a key diagnostic marker for acute pancreatitis.
A: Decreased WBC - This is not a typical finding in acute pancreatitis. Inflammation in the pancreas usually leads to an increased WBC count.
C: Decreased serum lipase - Lipase levels actually increase in acute pancreatitis along with amylase. Both are important diagnostic markers.
D: Increased serum calcium - While hypercalcemia can occur in severe pancreatitis, it is not as specific or sensitive as elevated amylase levels in diagnosing acute pancreatitis.