The nurse assesses a patient who is reporting epigastric pain. The patient's serum amylase level is 369 units/L. What is the nurse's best action?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A serum amylase level of 369 units/L is elevated and indicates possible pancreatitis. The nurse should contact the primary health care provider to report the findings and initiate further evaluation and treatment. Continuing to monitor or referring the patient to a dietician may not address the underlying problem, and questioning the patient regarding alcohol use may also be appropriate, but should not be the nurse's initial action.

The Nurse Assesses a Patient Who Is Reporting Epigastric Pain