What finding should a nurse expect when assessing a client with acute pancreatitis?

When assessing a client with acute pancreatitis, a characteristic finding is epigastric pain that often radiates to the back. This type of pain occurs because the pancreas is located in the upper abdomen, and inflammation can lead to irritation of surrounding tissues and organ structures. As a result, individuals often describe this pain as severe, persistent, and sometimes poorly localized, with a tendency to radiate toward the back.

In acute pancreatitis, this pain might be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and possible fever, but the hallmark symptom is indeed the epigastric pain that can extend to the back. Recognizing this symptom is crucial for prompt diagnosis and management of the condition, as it helps differentiate acute pancreatitis from other abdominal emergencies.

The other options do not align with the typical presentations associated with acute pancreatitis. For instance, chest pain on exertion is more commonly associated with cardiac issues, while pain located in the lower abdomen might suggest conditions affecting the lower gastrointestinal tract or reproductive organs. Localized abdominal tenderness is also less specific, as acute pancreatitis often presents with more generalized pain rather than localized findings alone.