initial diet order for the patient with acute pancreatitis should be:
A)clear liquids.
B)a fat-controlled diet.
C)nothing by mouth.
D)a regular diet.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Patients with acute pancreatitis are typically placed on a period of bowel rest, during which they are not allowed to eat or drink anything by mouth. This allows the pancreas to rest and heal. Clear liquids may be introduced after the acute phase of the illness has resolved, but a fat-controlled diet is usually recommended thereafter. A regular diet may be resumed once the patient's symptoms have completely resolved and the underlying cause of pancreatitis has been corrected. Pain and inflammation caused by acute pancreatitis require complete bowel rest, so nothing by mouth (NPO) is necessary in the initial phase of treatment. This allows the pancreas to rest and recover, and decreases the risk of complications such as pancreatic abscesses, pseudo-pancreatic cysts, and even pancreatic necrosis which can be caused by feeding. After a few days, once symptoms have subsided, clear liquids can be introduced in small amounts, followed by a gradual transition to solid foods as tolerated.

Initial Diet Order for the Patient with Acute Pancreatitis Should