Which laboratory results should the nurse expect to see elevated in a client with pancreatitis?

In cases of pancreatitis, the most commonly elevated laboratory result is the lipase level. Lipase is an enzyme produced by the pancreas that plays a crucial role in the digestion of fats. When the pancreas becomes inflamed, as seen in pancreatitis, the levels of lipase in the bloodstream increase significantly. This elevation occurs due to the damaged pancreatic tissue releasing more lipase into the circulation.

While other enzymes, such as trypsin, are involved in various digestive processes, lipase is specifically significant to pancreatitis diagnosis and management. An elevated lipase level is more clinically relevant than changes in lactase or sucrase levels, which are associated with carbohydrate digestion and not typically linked to pancreatic issues. Thus, the presence of elevated lipase serves as a key indicator in assessing and managing pancreatitis.