A client is admitted to the medical/surgical unit with acute pancreatitis secondary to a viral infection. Select the action by the nurse that is most important in promoting healing of the pancreas.
A)Place the client in the prone position to increase comfort.
B)Maintain the client in a strict nothing-by-mouth (NPO) status.
C)Decrease the IV intake to prevent cardiac overload.
D)Administer prescribed IV antibiotics on schedule.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The most important action in promoting healing of the pancreas in acute pancreatitis is maintaining the client in a strict NPO status. This allows the pancreas to rest and decreases stimulation of enzyme secretion, which can worsen inflammation and damage to the pancreas. Adequate hydration and pain control are also important interventions, but these are not listed as options. Placing the client in the prone position is not a recommended intervention for pancreatitis as it can increase pressure in the abdomen and worsen pain. Decreasing IV intake is not appropriate as clients with acute pancreatitis often require IV fluids to maintain hydration and prevent complications such as renal failure. Administering IV antibiotics may be necessary if there is evidence of infection, but it is not the most important intervention for promoting healing of the pancreas in acute pancreatitis.

A Client Is Admitted to the Medical/surgical Unit with Acute