The nurse is planning for the nutritional needs of a patient with acute pancreatitis accompanied by pain and nausea. The nurse understands that initially _____.
A) all oral fluids and food should be withheld
B) the patient can have liquids only
C) tube feeding with an elemental formula should begin immediately
D) TPN should be started immediately
E) the patient should have a regular, fat-restricted diet

Question

The nurse is planning for the nutritional needs of a patient with acute pancreatitis accompanied by pain and nausea. The nurse understands that initially _____. ​
A) ​all oral fluids and food should be withheld
B) ​the patient can have liquids only
C) ​tube feeding with an elemental formula should begin immediately
D) ​TPN should be started immediately
E) the patient should have a regular, fat-restricted diet​

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Withholding all oral fluids and food is necessary to rest the pancreas and reduce the risk of further inflammation and complications. This approach is recommended during the early stages of acute pancreatitis until the patient's condition stabilizes. Once the patient's pain, nausea, and other symptoms improve, the healthcare team can gradually introduce clear liquids and then advance to solid food as tolerated. Tube feeding and TPN may be considered if the patient is unable to meet their nutritional needs orally or is at high risk for complications. A regular, fat-restricted diet is not appropriate during the acute phase of pancreatitis.

The Nurse Is Planning for the Nutritional Needs of a Patient