Complications & Interventions
What is hypovolemia, and how is it managed?
Monitor electrolytes, watch for hypotension & tachycardia, provide IV fluids & electrolyte replacement.
What enzyme increases within 24 hours and stays elevated for 2–3 days?
blood amylase
What is the characteristic pain pattern of pancreatitis?
Sudden, severe, boring pain through the body, often radiating to the back, left flank, or shoulder.
What opioid analgesic is preferred for acute pancreatitis pain?
Morphine or hydromorphone
What dietary advice is essential to prevent acute pancreatitis episodes?
Avoid high-fat foods & heavy meals
What complication can cause rupture or hemorrhage, and how is it managed?
Pancreatic infection – monitor for rupture/hemorrhage, maintain sump tube, and check for skin breakdown.
What enzyme remains elevated longer than amylase and is a key marker for pancreatitis?
blood lipase
What position helps relieve pain associated with pancreatitis?
Fetal position, sitting upright, or bending forward
Why is Meperidine discouraged in older adults?
Risk of seizures
Why should clients avoid alcohol after pancreatitis?
It can trigger another attack & worsen pancreatic damage
What is the most common metabolic disorder associated with pancreatitis, and how is it treated?
Type 1 diabetes – monitor blood glucose, administer insulin as needed.
What electrolyte imbalances are expected due to fat necrosis?
Decreased calcium & magnesium
What are two hallmark skin discolorations seen in pancreatitis?
Flank ecchymosis (Turner’s sign) & periumbilical discoloration (Cullen’s sign)
What antibiotic is used for acute necrotizing pancreatitis, and what are key monitoring points?
Imipenem – monitor for infection signs & seizures
What interprofessional service can assist with nutritional needs post-pancreatitis?
Dietitian referral
What respiratory complication is more common in older adults, and how is it managed?
Left lung effusion & atelectasis – monitor for hypoxia, provide ventilatory support, watch for pneumonia.
What lab values increase due to biliary dysfunction?
Liver enzymes & bilirubin
What are signs of hypocalcemia seen in severe pancreatitis?
Trousseau’s sign (hand spasm) & Chvostek’s sign (facial twitching)
What medication class reduces gastric acid secretion and should be monitored for hypomagnesemia?
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like Omeprazole
What precautions should be taken when taking pancrelipase to avoid irritation?
Drink a full glass of water, wipe lips, rinse mouth after taking
What is multisystem organ failure, and what are key assessment findings?
Monitor for respiratory distress, jaundice, oliguria, and report any worsening signs immediately.
What mnemonic helps remember pancreatitis-related lab values?
"In pancreatitis, the ‘ases’ (aces) are high" – meaning amylase and lipase are elevated.
What are three GI findings in pancreatitis that indicate worsening complications?
What are three GI findings in pancreatitis that indicate worsening complications?
What pancreatic enzyme must be taken with meals, and what precautions should be followed?
Pancrelipase – take with every meal/snack, wipe lips/rinse mouth after, don’t mix with protein foods
What support services are recommended for clients with alcohol-induced pancreatitis?
Alcohol use disorder support groups