Final answer:
Elevated serum lipase levels are most indicative of acute pancreatitis. While other tests like a complete blood count or liver function tests may provide additional information, they are not as specific for diagnosing acute pancreatitis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse is caring for a client with acute pancreatitis. Among the listed options, the serum lipase level is most indicative of acute pancreatitis. Liver function tests (LFTs) can indicate gallbladder disease but are not as specific for pancreatitis. A complete blood count (CBC) might show a high white blood cell count suggesting infection, which is a nonspecific finding and may or may not be related to pancreatitis. Elevated blood glucose levels can be a consequence of pancreatitis due to the pancreas' role in insulin secretion, but it is not the most specific indicator. Serum bilirubin is typically associated with liver function and conditions affecting the bile ducts more than the pancreas itself.
Measurement of blood levels of the enzyme lipase, which is produced by the pancreas, is a key diagnostic test for acute pancreatitis. When the pancreas is inflamed, lipase levels in the blood can become elevated, providing a clear indication of an issue with the pancreas.