Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

Which laboratory test result is most likely to be elevated in a patient diagnosed with acute pancreatitis?

1. Lipase is lowered

2. White blood count will be elevated

3. Bilirubin is grossly elevated

4. Glucose may be severely decreased

The correct answer is: White blood count will be elevated

In the context of acute pancreatitis, an elevation in the white blood count (WBC) is typically observed as part of the inflammatory response that occurs due to the condition. Acute pancreatitis involves the release of digestive enzymes into the pancreas and surrounding tissue, leading to inflammation, pain, and possible infection. This inflammatory process stimulates the immune system, resulting in leukocytosis, which is the increase in the number of white blood cells. While elevated WBC is a common finding in acute inflammation, other lab results are also important to consider. For example, lipase levels often increase significantly in acute pancreatitis, making lipase a key marker for diagnosis. However, if it had been suggested that lipase levels are lowered, this would not be consistent with the expected laboratory findings in acute pancreatitis. Similarly, bilirubin levels can rise but typically do not reach grossly elevated levels unless there are complications such as bile duct obstruction. Lastly, glucose levels may actually be elevated due to stress hyperglycemia, rather than severely decreased. Thus, the elevation of white blood count aligns well with the underlying pathophysiology of acute pancreatitis, as it reflects the body's response to the inflammation and potential infection associated with the condition.