ASSESSMENT
A patient presents with severe epigastric pain radiating to the back. What condition should the nurse suspect?
Acute pancreatitis.
What is the FIRST priority intervention in acute pancreatitis?
Aggressive IV fluid resuscitation.
Which IV fluid is commonly used first-line in pancreatitis?
Lactated Ringers
What is the most common serious complication of pancreatitis?
Hypovolemia.
Why should oral intake be avoided in acute pancreatitis?
Stimulates pancreatic enzyme secretion, worsening inflammation.
A patient reports that leaning forward relieves their abdominal pain. What condition does this support?
Pancreatitis.
Why are patients kept NPO during acute pancreatitis?
Why are patients kept NPO during acute pancreatitis?
Why is 0.9% Sodium Chloride also used in pancreatitis?
To restore intravascular volume.
Why are patients with pancreatitis at risk for respiratory complications?
Inflammation can lead to ARDS.
Why is positioning (leaning forward) helpful?
Reduces pressure on the pancreas.
What lab values are most specific for pancreatitis?
Elevated amylase and lipase.
A patient with pancreatitis has severe pain. What is the priority intervention?
Administer opioid analgesics.
Why are opioids like Morphine, Hydromorphone, or Fentanyl used?
To control severe pain.
What is pancreatic necrosis?
Death of pancreatic tissue due to severe inflammation.
Why are patients at risk for malnutrition in chronic pancreatitis?
Decreased enzyme production leads to poor nutrient absorption.
A patient with pancreatitis develops bluish discoloration around the umbilicus. What is this sign called?
Cullen’s sign (indicates hemorrhagic pancreatitis).
Why is early fluid resuscitation critical in pancreatitis?
Prevents hypovolemia and organ failure.
What is the role of Octreotide in pancreatitis?
Reduces pancreatic enzyme secretion.
Why can pancreatitis lead to hypocalcemia?
Fat necrosis binds calcium.
A patient’s pain suddenly decreases but condition worsens. Why is this concerning?
May indicate pancreatic necrosis.
A patient develops flank bruising. What is this finding called and what does it indicate?
Grey Turner’s sign; indicates severe hemorrhagic pancreatitis.
A patient becomes hypotensive and tachycardic. What is the priority concern?
Hypovolemic shock.
Why might Pancrelipase be used in chronic pancreatitis?
To aid digestion due to decreased enzyme production.
A patient becomes confused and hypotensive. What severe complication should be suspected?
Septic shock or multi-organ failure.
Why must fluid status be closely monitored in pancreatitis?
High risk of third-spacing and hypovolemia.