A client with acute pancreatitis is experiencing severe abdominal pain. Which enzyme level should the nurse monitor closely?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Serum amylase. In acute pancreatitis, damaged pancreatic cells release amylase into the bloodstream, causing elevated serum amylase levels. Monitoring serum amylase helps in diagnosing and assessing the severity of pancreatitis. Incorrect choices: B: Serum sodium - Serum sodium levels are typically not directly affected by pancreatitis. C: Serum calcium - While hypocalcemia can occur in severe pancreatitis, monitoring serum calcium is not as specific for pancreatitis diagnosis or severity assessment as serum amylase. D: Serum potassium - Potassium levels may be affected in pancreatitis due to vomiting or dehydration, but monitoring serum potassium is not as specific to pancreatitis as serum amylase.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Compartment syndrome is a medical emergency that can lead to tissue damage and loss of limb function. Immediate intervention is crucial to prevent further complications. Finger paresthesias related to carpal tunnel syndrome (A) are not life-threatening and can be managed conservatively. Morton's neuroma (C) and plantar fasciitis (D) are painful conditions, but they do not pose an immediate threat to the client's health or limb function.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: The mother who took her children from school because aliens were after them should be seen first. This choice indicates potential harm to the children due to the mother's delusions, posing an immediate safety concern. The nurse needs to assess the situation and ensure the children's safety. Choices B, C, and D do not present immediate safety risks. B is a history of substance abuse but no current immediate danger. C is newly diagnosed and can wait for evaluation, as can D who may need support but is not in immediate danger. Prioritizing safety is crucial in mental health nursing.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because an African-American infant losing weight rapidly is a sign of potential malnutrition or health issue that requires immediate intervention. The nurse should assess the infant's feeding, growth, and health status to address the problem promptly. Choice A is incorrect as cupping is a cultural practice that may not necessarily harm the child and should be respected. Choice B is incorrect as being late for appointments is not a direct health risk that requires immediate intervention. Choice C is incorrect as avoiding direct eye contact is a cultural norm for some Native-American individuals and does not indicate a health emergency.