Chapter 44 | Assessment and Management of Patients with Biliary Disorders

A nurse cares for a client with interstitial pancreatitis. What client teaching will the nurse include when planning care for the client?

"Inflammation is confined to only the pancreas."

A nurse is providing dietary instructions to a client with a history of pancreatitis. Which instruction is correct?

"Maintain a high-carbohydrate, low-fat diet."

A nurse is providing dietary instructions to a client with a history of pancreatitis. Which instruction is correct? -"Maintain a high-fat diet and drink at least 3 L of fluid a day." -"Maintain a high-sodium, high-calorie diet." "Maintain a high-carbohydrate, low-fat diet." -"Maintain a high-fat, high-carbohydrate diet."

"Maintain a high-carbohydrate, low-fat diet." A client with a history of pancreatitis should avoid foods and beverages that stimulate the pancreas, such as fatty foods, caffeine, and gas-forming foods; should avoid eating large meals; and should eat plenty of carbohydrates, which are easily metabolized. Therefore, the only correct instruction is to maintain a high-carbohydrate, low-fat diet. An increased sodium or fluid intake isn't necessary because chronic pancreatitis isn't associated with hyponatremia or fluid loss.

When caring for the patient with acute pancreatitis, the nurse must consider pain relief measures. What nursing interventions could the nurse provide? (Select all that apply.)

- Encouraging bed rest to decrease the metabolic rate - Withholding oral feedings to limit the release of secretin - Administering parenteral opioid analgesics as ordered

This example of cholesterol gallstones (left side of picture) is the result of decreased bile acid synthesis and increased cholesterol synthesis in the liver, which in turn, form stones. Cholesterol stones account for what percentage of cases of gallbladder disease in the United States? -15% -25% -60% -75%

-75% Cholesterol stones account for approximately 75% of cases of gallbladder disease in the United States.

A client with calculi in the gallbladder is said to have -Cholecystitis -Cholelithiasis -Choledocholithiasis -Choledochotomy

-Cholelithiasis Calculi, or gallstones, usually form in the gallbladder from the solid constituents of bile; they vary greatly in size, shape, and composition. Cholecystitis is acute inflammation of the gallbladder. Choledocholithiasis is a gallstone in the common bile duct. Choledochotomy is an incision into the common bile duct.

What is the most appropriate nursing diagnosis for the client with acute pancreatitis? -Deficient fluid volume -Excess fluid volume -Decreased cardiac output -Ineffective gastrointestinal tissue perfusion

-Deficient fluid volume Clients with acute pancreatitis often experience deficient fluid volume, which can lead to hypovolemic shock. Vomiting, hemorrhage (in hemorrhagic pancreatitis), and plasma leaking into the peritoneal cavity may cause the volume deficit. Hypovolemic shock will cause a decrease in cardiac output. Gastrointestinal tissue perfusion will be ineffective if hypovolemic shock occurs, but this wouldn't be the primary nursing diagnosis.

Which condition is most likely to have a nursing diagnosis of fluid volume deficit? -Appendicitis -Pancreatitis -Cholecystitis -Gastric ulcer

-Pancreatitis Hypovolemic shock from fluid shifts is a major factor in acute pancreatitis. Appendicitis, cholecystitis, and gastric ulcer are less likely to exhibit fluid volume deficit.

A patient is diagnosed with gallstones in the bile ducts. What laboratory results should the nurse review? -Serum ammonia concentration of 90 mg/dL -Serum albumin concentration of 4.0 g/dL -Serum bilirubin level greater than 1.0 mg/dL -Serum globulin concentration of 2.0 g/dL

-Serum bilirubin level greater than 1.0 mg/dL

A client with chronic pancreatitis is treated for uncontrolled pain. Which complication does the nurse recognize is most common in the client with chronic pancreatitis? -Weight loss -Diarrhea -Fatigue -Hypertension

-Weight loss Weight loss is most common in the client with chronic pancreatitis due to decreased dietary intake secondary to anorexia or fear that eating will precipitate another attack. The other answer choices are not the most common complications related to chronic pancreatitis.

A nurse should monitor blood glucose levels for a patient diagnosed with hyperinsulinism. What blood value does the nurse recognize as inadequate to sustain normal brain function?

30 mg/dL

The nurse knows that the serum amylase concentration returns to normal within which time frame?

48-72 hours

A patient is receiving pharmacologic therapy with ursodeoxycholic acid or chenodeoxycholic-cholic acid for treatment of small gallstones. The patient asks the nurse how long the therapy will take to dissolve the stones. What is the best answer the nurse can give?

6 to 12 months

A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with cholelithiasis. Which of the following would be most appropriate for a client who is experiencing biliary colic?

Administer analgesics

A nurse is teaching a client and the client's family about chronic pancreatitis. Which are the major causes of chronic pancreatitis?

Alcohol consumption and smoking

Which intervention should be included in the plan of care for a client who has undergone a cholecystectomy?

Assessing the color of the sclera every shift

The nurse is planning care for a client following an incisional cholecystectomy for cholelithiasis. Which intervention is the highest nursing priority for this client?

Assisting the client to turn, cough, and deep breathe every 2 hours Assessment should focus on the client's respiratory status. If a traditional surgical approach is planned, the high abdominal incision required during surgery may interfere with full respiratory excursion. The other nursing actions are also important, but are not as high a priority as ensuring adequate ventilation.

Which is a clinical manifestation of cholelithiasis?

Clay-colored stools The client with gallstones has clay-colored stools and excruciating upper right quadrant pain that radiates to the back or right shoulder. The excretion of bile pigments by the kidneys makes urine very dark. The feces, no longer colored with bile pigments, are grayish (like putty) or clay colored. The client develops a fever and may have a palpable abdominal mass.

The nurse is caring for a client recovering from acute pancreatitis. Which menu item should the nurse remove from the client's breakfast tray?

Coffee

A 70-year-old client is admitted with acute pancreatitis. The nurse understands that the mortality rate associated with acute pancreatitis increases with advanced age and attributes this to which gerontologic consideration associated with the pancreas?

Decreases in the physiologic function of major organs

What is the most appropriate nursing diagnosis for the client with acute pancreatitis?

Deficient fluid volume

Increased appetite and thirst may indicate that a client with chronic pancreatitis has developed diabetes melitus. Which of the following explains the cause of this secondary diabetes?

Dysfunction of the pancreatic islet cells

The nurse is caring for a client with suspected chronic pancreatitis. Which diagnostic test or imaging does the nurse recognize as the most useful in diagnosing this condition?

ERCP

A client is admitted to the healthcare facility suspected of having acute pancreatitis and undergoes laboratory testing. Which of the following would the nurse expect to find?

Elevated urine amylase levels Elevated serum and urine amylase, lipase, and liver enzyme levels accompany significant pancreatitis. If the common bile duct is obstructed, the bilirubin level is above normal. Blood glucose levels and white blood cell counts can be elevated. Serum electrolyte levels (calcium, potassium, and magnesium) are low.

When caring for the patient with acute pancreatitis, the nurse must consider pain relief measures. What nursing interventions could the nurse provide?

Encouraging bed rest to decrease the metabolic rate Withholding oral feedings to limit the release of secretin Administering parenteral opioid analgesics as ordered

Which of the following would be most appropriate for a client who is experiencing biliary colic?

Ensure that the client rests.

When the nurse is caring for a patient with acute pancreatitis, what intervention can be provided in order to prevent atelectasis and prevent pooling of respiratory secretions?

Frequent changes of positions

Which condition in a client with pancreatitis makes it necessary for the nurse to check fluid intake and output, check hourly urine output, and monitor electrolyte levels?

Frequent vomiting, leading to loss of fluid volume Fluid and electrolyte disturbances are common complications because of nausea, vomiting, movement of fluid from the vascular compartment to the peritoneal cavity, diaphoresis, fever, and the use of gastric suction. The nurse assesses the client's fluid and electrolyte status by noting skin turgor and moistness of mucous membranes. The nurse weighs the client daily and carefully measures fluid intake and output, including urine output, nasogastric secretions, and diarrhea.

A patient is suspected to have pancreatic carcinoma and is having diagnostic testing to determine insulin deficiency. What would the nurse determine is an indicator for insulin deficiency in this patient? (Select all that apply).

Glucosuria Hyperglycemia An abnormal glucose tolerance

Upon receiving the dinner tray for a client admitted with acute gallbladder inflammation, the nurse will question which of the following foods on the tray?

Hot roast beef sandwich with gravy

A nurse is caring for a client who was admitted with pain, tenderness, and rigidity of the upper right abdomen, suggesting a gall bladder issue. The client has also been experiencing nausea and vomiting for the past 3 days. The admitting service is planning for tests to be conducted in the morning.

Lab Assessment: Cholesterol is elevated in biliary obstruction. Ultrasonography: It is used to visualize calculi in the gallbladder. Cholescintigraphy: The radioactive dye allows for visualization of the biliary tract.

A nurse is planning care for a client with acute pancreatitis. Which client outcome does the nurse assign as the highest priority?

Maintaining normal respiratory function

A client with acute pancreatitis has been started on total parenteral nutrition (TPN). Which action should the nurse perform after administration of the TPN?

Measure blood glucose concentration every 4 to 6 hours

When caring for a client with acute pancreatitis, the nurse should use which comfort measure?

Positioning the client on the side with the knees flexed The nurse should place the client with acute pancreatitis in a side-lying position with knees flexed; this position promotes comfort by decreasing pressure on the abdominal muscles.

A client diagnosed with acute pancreatitis is being transferred to another facility. The nurse caring for the client completes the transfer summary, which includes information about the client's drinking history and other assessment findings. Which assessment findings confirm his diagnosis?

Recent weight loss and temperature elevation Assessment findings associated with pancreatitis include recent weight loss and temperature elevation. Inflammation of the pancreas causes a response that elevates temperature and leads to abdominal pain that typically occurs with eating. Nausea and vomiting may occur as a result of pancreatic tissue damage that's caused by the activation of pancreatic enzymes. The client may experience weight loss because of the lost desire to eat.

A client is admitted to the health care facility with abdominal pain, a low-grade fever, abdominal distention, and weight loss. The physician diagnoses acute pancreatitis. What is the primary goal of nursing care for this client?

Relieving abdominal pain

A patient is diagnosed with gallstones in the bile ducts. What laboratory results should the nurse review?

Serum bilirubin level greater than 1.0 mg/dL

The nurse is caring for a patient with acute pancreatitis. The patient has an order for an anticholinergic medication. The nurse explains that the patient will be receiving that medication for what reason?

To reduce gastric and pancreatic secretions

A nurse is caring for a client in the emergency department who is complaining of severe abdominal pain. The client is diagnosed with acute pancreatitis. Which laboratory value requires immediate intervention?

Troponin of 2.3 mcg/L An elevated troponin level indicates myocardial damage and needs immediate further investigation

A client with cholelithiasis has a gallstone lodged in the common bile duct. When assessing this client, the nurse expects to note:

Yellow sclerae

A preoperative client scheduled to have an open cholecystectomy says to the nurse, "The doctor said that after surgery, I will have a tube in my nose that goes into my stomach. Why do I need that?" What most common reason for a client having a nasogastric tube in place after abdominal surgery should the nurse include in a response?

decompression

A client has a nasogastric (NG) tube for suction and is NPO after a pancreaticoduodenectomy. Which explanation made by the nurse is the major purpose of this treatment?

"The tube allows the gastrointestinal tract to rest." An NG tube with suction and parenteral nutrition allow the gastrointestinal tract to rest while promoting adequate nutrition.

A client who is 24 hours post op from laparoscopic cholecystectomy calls the nurse and reports pain in the right shoulder. How should the nurse respond to the client's report of symptoms? -"Apply a heating pad to your shoulder for 15 minutes hourly as needed." -"Come into the emergency room as soon as possible." -"Take an over the counter analgesic as needed." -"Place your shoulder in a sling to avoid moving it."

-"Apply a heating pad to your shoulder for 15 minutes hourly as needed." Pain in the right shoulder may occur after laparoscopic cholecystectomy due to migration of the carbon dioxide used to insufflate the abdominal cavity during the procedure. The nurse should instruct the client to apply a heating pad to the shoulder for 15 to 20 minutes every hour as needed for pain relief. The nurse should not instruct the client to take analgesic medication-this is a medical order performed by the health care provider only. This scenario is not life threatening and the client does not need to go to the emergency department. It is also not necessary for the client to place the shoulder in a sling as this is not an injury-related condition.

A nurse is preparing a client for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). The client asks what this test is used for. Which statements by the nurse explains how ERCP can determine the difference between pancreatitis and other biliary disorders? Select all that apply. -"It can evaluate the presence and location of ductal stones and aid in stone removal." -"It is used in the diagnostic evaluation of acute pancreatitis." -"It can assess the anatomy of the pancreas and the pancreatic and biliary ducts." -"It can detect unhealthy tissues in the pancreas and assess for abscesses and pseudocysts." -"It can assess for ecchymosis in the body."

-"It can detect unhealthy tissues in the pancreas and assess for abscesses and pseudocysts." -"It can evaluate the presence and location of ductal stones and aid in stone removal." -"It can assess the anatomy of the pancreas and the pancreatic and biliary ducts." ERCP can determine the difference between pancreatitis and other biliary disorders and is generally used in chronic pancreatitis. It is particularly useful in diagnosis and treatment of clients who have symptoms after biliary tract surgery, clients with intact gallbladders, and clients for whom surgery is particularly hazardous. It can be used to assist with the removal of stones. ERCP is a useful tool in providing anatomic details about the pancreas and biliary ducts. It can evaluate the presence and location of ductal stones and detect changes in the anatomy of the client with pancreatitis, such as obstruction in the pancreatic duct and tissue necrosis due to premature release of pancreatic enzymes, and assess for abscesses and pseudocysts and atrophy of the glands in the body. ERCP is rarely used in the diagnostic evaluation of acute pancreatitis because the clients is acutely ill; however, it may be valuable in treating gallstone pancreatitis.

A client has a nasogastric (NG) tube for suction and is NPO after a pancreaticoduodenectomy. Which explanation made by the nurse is the major purpose of this treatment? -"The tube helps control fluid and electrolyte imbalance." -"The tube provides relief from nausea and vomiting." -"The tube allows the gastrointestinal tract to rest." -"The tube allows toxins to be removed."

-"The tube allows the gastrointestinal tract to rest." Postoperative management of clients who have undergone a pancreatectomy or a pancreaticoduodenectomy is similar to the management of clients after extensive gastrointestinal or biliary surgery. An NG tube with suction and parenteral nutrition allow the gastrointestinal tract to rest while promoting adequate nutrition.

A nurse should monitor blood glucose levels for a patient diagnosed with hyperinsulinism. What blood value does the nurse recognize as inadequate to sustain normal brain function? -30 mg/dL -50 mg/dL -70 mg/dL -90 mg/dL

-30 mg/dL Hyperinsulinism is caused by overproduction of insulin by the pancreatic islets. Occasionally, tumors of nonpancreatic origin produce an insulinlike material that can cause severe hypoglycemia and may be responsible for seizures coinciding with blood glucose levels that are too low to sustain normal brain function (i.e., lower than 30 mg/dL [1.6 mmol/L]) (Goldman & Schafer, 2012; McPherson & Pincus, 2011).

The nurse knows that the serum amylase concentration returns to normal within which time frame? -12 hours -24 hours -36 hours -48 hours

-48 hours Serum amylase usually returns to normal within 48 to 72 hours.

Pharmacologic therapy frequently is used to dissolve small gallstones. It takes about how many months of medication with UDCA or CDCA for stones to dissolve? -1 to 2 -3 to 5 -6 to 12 -13 to 18

-6 to 12 Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA [URSO, Actigall]) and chenodeoxycholic acid (chenodiol or CDCA [Chenix]) have been used to dissolve small, radiolucent gallstones composed primarily of cholesterol. Six to 12 months of therapy are required in many clients to dissolve stones, and monitoring of the client for recurrence of symptoms or occurrence of side effects (eg, GI symptoms, pruritus, headache) is required during this time.

Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) has been used to dissolve small, radiolucent gallstones. Which duration of therapy is required to dissolve the stones? -1 to 4 months -4 to 6 months -6 to 12 months -Over 1 year

-6 to 12 months Six to 12 months of therapy with UDCA is recommended in clients to dissolve the stones.

A patient is receiving pharmacologic therapy with ursodeoxycholic acid or chenodeoxy-cholic acid for treatment of small gallstones. The patient asks the nurse how long the therapy will take to dissolve the stones. What is the best answer the nurse can give? -1 to 2 months -3 to 5 months -6 to 8 months -6 to 12 months

-6 to 12 months Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA [Urso, Actigall]) and chenodeoxycholic acid (chenodiol or CDCA [Chenix]) have been used to dissolve small, radiolucent gallstones composed primarily of cholesterol (Karch, 2012). Six to 12 months of therapy is required in many patients to dissolve stones, and monitoring of the patient for recurrence of symptoms or the occurrence of side effects (e.g., GI symptoms, pruritus, headache) is required during this time.

A client is evaluated for severe pain in the right upper abdominal quadrant, which is accompanied by nausea and vomiting. The physician diagnoses acute cholecystitis and cholelithiasis. For this client, which nursing diagnosis takes top priority? -Acute pain related to biliary spasms -Deficient knowledge related to prevention of disease recurrence -Anxiety related to unknown outcome of hospitalization -Imbalanced nutrition: Less than body requirements related to biliary inflammation

-Acute pain related to biliary spasms The chief symptom of cholecystitis is abdominal pain or biliary colic. Typically, the pain is so severe that the client is restless and changes positions frequently to find relief. Therefore, the nursing diagnosis of Acute pain related to biliary spasms takes highest priority. Until the acute pain is relieved, the client can't learn about prevention, may continue to experience anxiety, and can't address nutritional concerns.

A client with a history of alcohol abuse comes to the emergency department and complains of abdominal pain. Laboratory studies help confirm a diagnosis of acute pancreatitis. The client's vital signs are stable, but the client's pain is worsening and radiating to his back. Which intervention takes priority for this client? -Placing the client in a semi-Fowler's position -Maintaining nothing-by-mouth (NPO) status -Administering morphine I.V. as ordered -Providing mouth care

-Administering morphine I.V. as ordered The nurse should address the client's pain issues first by administering morphine I.V. as ordered. Placing the client in a Semi-Fowler's position, maintaining NPO status, and providing mouth care don't take priority over addressing the client's pain issues.

A nursing student has been assigned to care for a client with pancreatic cancer. The student is aware that the risk for pancreatic cancer is most directly proportional to -Age -Dietary intake of fat -Cigarette smoking -Presence of diabetes mellitus

-Age Incidence of pancreatic cancer increases with age, peaking in the seventh and eighth decades for both men and women. It is very rare before 45 years, and most patients present in or beyond the sixth decade of life. Cigarette smoking, exposure to industrial chemicals or toxins in the environment, and a diet high in fat, meat, or both are associated with pancreatic cancer, although their roles are not completely clear. Diabetes mellitus, chronic pancreatitis, and hereditary pancreatitis are also associated with pancreatic cancer.

A nursing instructor is lecturing to a class about chronic pancreatitis. Which of the following does the instructor list as major causes? -Malnutrition and acute pancreatitis -Alcohol consumption and smoking -Alcohol consumption and acute pancreatitis -Acute pancreatitis and alcohol consumption

-Alcohol consumption and smoking Alcohol consumption in Western societies and malnutrition worldwide are the major causes of chronic pancreatitis. Smoking is another factor in the development of chronic pancreatitis. Because heavy drinkers usually smoke, it is difficult to separate the effects of the alcohol abuse and smoking. Obesity is a form of malnutrition. Acute pancreatitis does not usually lead to chronic pancreatitis unless complications develop.

Clinical manifestations of common bile duct obstruction include all of the following except: -Amber-colored urine -Clay-colored feces -Pruritus -Jaundice

-Amber-colored urine The excretion of the bile pigments by the kidneys gives the urine a very dark color. The feces, no longer colored with bile pigments, are grayish, like putty, or clay-colored. The symptoms may be acute or chronic. Epigastric distress, such as fullness, abdominal distention, and vague pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen, may occur. If it goes untreated jaundice and pruritus can occur.

The nurse is planning care for a client following an incisional cholecystectomy for cholelithiasis. Which intervention is the highest nursing priority for this client? -Assisting the client to turn, cough, and deep breathe every 2 hours -Teaching the client to choose low-fat foods from the menu -Performing range-of-motion (ROM) leg exercises hourly while the client is awake -Assisting the client to ambulate the evening of the operative day

-Assisting the client to turn, cough, and deep breathe every 2 hours Assessment should focus on the client's respiratory status. If a traditional surgical approach is planned, the high abdominal incision required during surgery may interfere with full respiratory excursion. The other nursing actions are also important, but are not as high a priority as ensuring adequate ventilation.

A client who had developed jaundice 2 months earlier is brought to the ED after attending a party and developing excruciating pain that radiated over the abdomen and into the back. Upon assessment, which additional symptom would the nurse expect this client to have? -Hypertension -Bile-stained vomiting -Warm, dry skin -Weight loss

-Bile-stained vomiting Nausea and vomiting are common in acute pancreatitis. The emesis is usually gastric in origin but may also be bile stained. Fever, jaundice, mental confusion, and agitation may also occur.

The nurse is caring for a client with a biliary disorder who has an elevated amylase level. If this elevation correlates to dysfunction, which body process does the nurse recognize may be impaired? -Carbohydrate digestion -Protein synthesis -Fat digestion -Protein digestion

-Carbohydrate digestion Amylase is a pancreatic enzyme involved in the breakdown and digestion of carbohydrates. Trypsin aids in the digestion of proteins. Lipase aids in the digestion of fats.

Which foods should be avoided following acute gallbladder inflammation? -Cooked fruits -Cheese -Coffee -Mashed potatoes

-Cheese The client should avoid eggs, cream, pork, fried foods, cheese, rich dressings, gas-forming vegetables, and alcohol. It is important to remind the client that fatty foods may induce an episode of cholecystitis. Cooked fruits, rice or tapioca, lean meats, mashed potatoes, non-gas-forming vegetables, bread, coffee, or tea may be consumed as tolerated.

A patient is admitted to the hospital with a possible common bile duct obstruction. What clinical manifestations does the nurse understand are indicators of this problem? (Select all that apply.) -Amber-colored urine -Clay-colored feces -Pruritus -Jaundice -Pain in the left upper abdominal quadrant

-Clay-colored feces -Pruritus -Jaundice Jaundice occurs in a few patients with gallbladder disease, usually with obstruction of the common bile duct. The bile, which is no longer carried to the duodenum, is absorbed by the blood and gives the skin and mucous membranes a yellow color. This is frequently accompanied by marked pruritus (itching) of the skin. The excretion of the bile pigments by the kidneys gives the urine a very dark color. The feces, no longer colored with bile pigments, are grayish (like putty) or clay colored.

Sixty to eighty percent of pancreatic tumors occur in the head of the pancreas. Tumors in this region obstruct the common bile duct. Which of the following clinical manifestations would indicate a common bile duct obstruction associated with a tumor in the head of the pancreas? Choose all that apply. -Clay-colored stools -Dark urine -Jaundice -Pruritis -Weight gain

-Clay-colored stools -Dark urine -Jaundice -Pruritis The obstructed flow of bile produces jaundice, clay-colored stools, and dark urine. Malabsorption of nutrients and fat-soluble vitamins may result if the tumor obstructs the entry of bile to the gastrointestinal tract. Abdominal discomfort or pain and pruritus may be noted, along with anorexia, weight loss, and malaise. If these signs and symptoms are present, cancer of the head of the pancreas is suspected.

Which is a clinical manifestation of cholelithiasis? -Epigastric distress before a meal -Clay-colored stools -Abdominal pain in the upper left quadrant -Nonpalpable abdominal mass

-Clay-colored stools The client with gallstones has clay-colored stools and excruciating upper right quadrant pain that radiates to the back or right shoulder. The excretion of bile pigments by the kidneys makes urine very dark. The feces, no longer colored with bile pigments, are grayish (like putty) or clay colored. The client develops a fever and may have a palpable abdominal mass.

A 70-year-old client is admitted with acute pancreatitis. The nurse understands that the mortality rate associated with acute pancreatitis increases with advanced age and attributes this to which gerontologic consideration associated with the pancreas? -Decreases in the physiologic function of major organs -Increases in the bicarbonate output by the kidneys -Increases in the rate of pancreatic secretion -Development of local complications

-Decreases in the physiologic function of major organs Acute pancreatitis affects people of all ages, but the mortality rate associated with acute pancreatitis increases with advancing age. The pattern of complications changes with age. Younger clients tend to develop local complications; the incidence of multiple organ failure increases with age, possibly as a result of progressive decreases in physiologic function of major organs with increasing age.

Increased appetite and thirst may indicate that a client with chronic pancreatitis has developed diabetes melitus. Which of the following explains the cause of this secondary diabetes? -Dysfunction of the pancreatic islet cells -Ingestion of foods high in sugar -Inability for the liver to reabsorb serum glucose -Renal failure

-Dysfunction of the pancreatic islet cells Diabetes mellitus resulting from dysfunction of the pancreatic islet cells is treated with diet, insulin, or oral antidiabetic agents. The hazard of severe hypoglycemia with alcohol consumption is stressed to the client and family. When secondary diabetes develops in a client with chronic pancreatitis, the client experiences increased appetite, thirst, and urination. A standard treatment with pancreatitis is to make the client NPO. The dysfunction is related to the pancreas, not the liver.

A patient is diagnosed with mild acute pancreatitis. What does the nurse understand is characteristic of this disorder? -Edema and inflammation -Pleural effusion -Sepsis -Disseminated intravascular coagulopathy

-Edema and inflammation Mild acute pancreatitis is characterized by edema and inflammation confined to the pancreas. Minimal organ dysfunction is present, and return to normal function usually occurs within 6 months.

A client is admitted to the healthcare facility suspected of having acute pancreatitis and undergoes laboratory testing. Which of the following would the nurse expect to find? -Increased serum calcium levels -Elevated urine amylase levels -Decreased liver enzyme levels -Decreased white blood cell count

-Elevated urine amylase levels Elevated serum and urine amylase, lipase, and liver enzyme levels accompany significant pancreatitis. If the common bile duct is obstructed, the bilirubin level is above normal. Blood glucose levels and white blood cell counts can be elevated. Serum electrolyte levels (calcium, potassium, and magnesium) are low.

When the nurse is caring for a patient with acute pancreatitis, what intervention can be provided in order to prevent atelectasis and prevent pooling of respiratory secretions? -Frequent changes of positions -Placing the patient in the prone position -Perform chest physiotherapy -Suction the patient every 4 hours

-Frequent changes of positions Frequent changes of position are necessary to prevent atelectasis and pooling of respiratory secretions.

Which condition in a client with pancreatitis makes it necessary for the nurse to check fluid intake and output, check hourly urine output, and monitor electrolyte levels? -Frequent vomiting, leading to loss of fluid volume -Dry mouth, which makes the client thirsty -Acetone in the urine -High glucose concentration in the blood

-Frequent vomiting, leading to loss of fluid volume Fluid and electrolyte disturbances are common complications because of nausea, vomiting, movement of fluid from the vascular compartment to the peritoneal cavity, diaphoresis, fever, and the use of gastric suction. The nurse assesses the client's fluid and electrolyte status by noting skin turgor and moistness of mucous membranes. The nurse weighs the client daily and carefully measures fluid intake and output, including urine output, nasogastric secretions, and diarrhea.

A client with suspected biliary obstruction due to gallstones reports changes to the color of his stools. Which stool color does the nurse recognize as common to biliary obstruction? -Gray -Black -Red -Green

-Gray A gray-white stool color is common with a biliary obstruction because the stool is no longer colored with bile pigments.

The patient admitted with acute pancreatitis has passed the acute stage and is now able to tolerate solid foods. What type of diet will increase caloric intake without stimulating pancreatic enzymes beyond the ability of the pancreas to respond? -Low-sodium, high-potassium, low-fat diet -High-carbohydrate, high-protein, low-fat diet -Low-carbohydrate, high-potassium diet -High-carbohydrate, low-protein, low-fat diet

-High-carbohydrate, low-protein, low-fat diet The nurse should provide a high-carbohydrate, low-protein, low-fat diet when tolerated. These foods increase caloric intake without stimulating pancreatic secretions beyond the ability of the pancreas to respond.

Upon receiving the dinner tray for a client admitted with acute gallbladder inflammation, the nurse will question which of the following foods on the tray? -Hot roast beef sandwich with gravy -Mashed potatoes -White rice -Vanilla pudding

-Hot roast beef sandwich with gravy The diet immediately after an episode of acute cholecystitis is initially limited to low-fat liquids. Cooked fruits, rice or tapioca, lean meats, mashed potatoes, bread, and coffee or tea may be added as tolerated. The client should avoid fried foods such as fried chicken, because fatty foods may bring on an episode of cholecystitis.

A student nurse is preparing a plan of care for a client with chronic pancreatitis. What nursing diagnosis related to the care of a client with chronic pancreatitis is the priority? -Disturbed body image -Impaired nutrition: less than body requirements -Nausea -Anxiety

-Impaired nutrition: less than body requirements While each diagnosis may be applicable to this client, the priority nursing diagnosis is impaired nutrition: less than body requirements. The physician, nurse, and dietitian emphasize to the client and family the importance of avoiding alcohol and foods that have produced abdominal pain and discomfort in the past. Oral food or fluid intake is not permitted during the acute phase.

A nurse is providing preoperative teaching to a client undergoing a cholecystectomy. Which topic should the nurse include in her teaching plan? -Increase respiratory effectiveness. -Eliminate the need for nasogastric intubation. -Improve nutritional status during recovery. -Decrease the amount of postoperative analgesia needed.

-Increase respiratory effectiveness. The nurse must teach the client about using an incentive spirometer to promote lung expansion. The high abdominal incision used in a cholecystectomy interferes with respirations postoperatively, increasing the risk of atelectasis. The client will need to use incentive spirometry to promote lung expansion, increase alveolar inflation, and strengthen respiratory muscles. Most clients don't have a nasogastric tube in place after a cholecystectomy. It isn't appropriate to teach improved nutritional status before surgery. It isn't important for the client to be aware of how to decrease the amount of postoperative analgesia, because this is the responsibility of the health care team.

Which is a gerontological consideration associated with the pancreas? -Increased amount of fibrous material -Increased bicarbonate output -Increased rate of pancreatic secretion -Increased calcium absorption

-Increased amount of fibrous material An increase in fibrous material and some fatty deposition occurs in the normal pancreas of people older than 70 years of age. There is a decreased rate of pancreatic secretion and decreased bicarbonate output in older adults. Decreased calcium absorption may also occur.

Which enzyme aids in the digestion of fats? -Lipase -Amylase -Secretin -Trypsin

-Lipase Lipase is a pancreatic enzyme that aids in the digestion of fats. Amylase aids in the digestion of carbohydrates. Secretin is responsible for stimulating secretion of pancreatic juice. Trypsin aids in the digestion of protein.

A critical care nurse is caring for a client with acute pancreatitis. One potentially severe complication involves the respiratory system. Which of the following would be an appropriate intervention to prevent complications associated with the respiratory system? -Maintain the client in a semi-Fowler's position. -Administer enteral or parenteral nutrition. -Carry out wound care as prescribed. -Withhold oral feedings.

-Maintain the client in a semi-Fowler's position. The nurse maintains the client in the semi-Fowler's position to decrease pressure on the diaphragm by a distended abdomen and to increase respiratory expansion. Respiratory distress and hypoxia are common, and the client may develop diffuse pulmonary infiltrates, dyspnea, tachypnea, and abnormal blood gas values. The client who has undergone surgery may have multiple drains or an open surgical incision and is at risk for skin breakdown and infection. Oral food or fluid intake is not permitted; therefore, enteral or parenteral feedings may be prescribed.

A nurse is planning care for a client with acute pancreatitis. Which client outcome does the nurse assign as the highest priority? -Developing no acute complications from the pancreatitis -Maintaining normal respiratory function -Maintaining satisfactory pain control -Achieving adequate fluid and electrolyte balance

-Maintaining normal respiratory function Airway and breathing are always the priority assessment. Acute pancreatitis produces retroperitoneal edema, elevation of the diaphragm, pleural effusion, and inadequate lung ventilation. Intra-abdominal infection and labored breathing increase the body's metabolic demands, which further decreases pulmonary reserve and can lead to respiratory failure. Maintenance of adequate respiratory function is the priority goal. The other outcomes would also be appropriate for the patient.

A client with acute pancreatitis has been started on total parenteral nutrition (TPN). Which action should the nurse perform after administration of the TPN? -Auscultate the abdomen for bowel sounds every 4 hours -Measure abdominal girth every shift -Monitor for reports of nausea and vomiting -Measure blood glucose concentration every 4 to 6 hours

-Measure blood glucose concentration every 4 to 6 hours Enteral or parenteral nutrition may be prescribed. In addition to administering enteral or parenteral nutrition, the nurse monitors the serum glucose concentration every 4 to 6 hours.

The nurse identifies a potential collaborative problem of electrolyte imbalance for a client with severe acute pancreatitis. Which assessment finding alerts the nurse to an electrolyte imbalance associated with acute pancreatitis? -Muscle twitching and finger numbness -Paralytic ileus and abdominal distention -Hypotension -Elevated blood glucose concentration

-Muscle twitching and finger numbness Muscle twitching and finger numbness indicate hypocalcemia, a potential complication of acute pancreatitis. Calcium may be prescribed to prevent or treat tetany, which may result from calcium losses into retroperitoneal (peripancreatic) exudate. The other data indicate other complications of acute pancreatitis but are not indicators of electrolyte imbalance.

A client with carcinoma of the head of the pancreas is scheduled for surgery. Which of the following should the nurse administer to the client before surgery? -Packed red blood cells -Vitamin C -Potassium -Oral bile acids

-Packed red blood cells Preoperative preparation includes adequate hydration, correction of prothrombin deficiency with vitamin K, and treatment of anemia to minimize postoperative complications. Parenteral nutrition and blood component therapy are frequently required. Potassium would be given only if the client's serum potassium levels were low. Oral bile acids are not prescribed for a client with carcinoma of the head of the pancreas; they are given to dissolve gallstones. Vitamin C has no implications in the surgery.

Which of the following conditions is most likely to involve a nursing diagnosis of fluid volume deficit? -Appendicitis -Pancreatitis -Cholecystitis -Peptic ulcer

-Pancreatitis Hypotension is typical and reflects hypovolemia and shock caused by the loss of large amounts of protein-rich fluid into the tissues and peritoneal cavity. The other conditions are less likely to exhibit fluid volume deficit.

The nurse is caring for a client with acute pancreatitis who is admitted to the intensive care unit to monitor for pulmonary complications. What is the nurse's understanding of the pathophysiology of pulmonary complications related to pancreatitis? -Pancreatitis can elevate the diaphragm and alter the breathing pattern. -Pancreatitis causes thickening of pulmonary secretions, impairing oxygenation. -Pancreatitis can atrophy the diaphragm and alter the breathing pattern. -Pancreatitis causes alterations to hemoglobin, impairing oxygenation.

-Pancreatitis can elevate the diaphragm and alter the breathing pattern. Aggressive pulmonary care is required for clients with acute pancreatitis. Pancreatitis can elevate the diaphragm and alter the breathing pattern of clients. Pancreatitis can cause retention of pulmonary secretions but does not thicken the secretions. Acute pancreatitis does not alter the hemoglobin.

One difference between cholesterol stones (left) and the stones on the right are that the ones on the right account for only 10% to 25% of cases of stones in the United States. What is the name of the stones on the right? -Pigment -Pearl -Patterned -Pixelated

-Pigment There are two major types of gallstones: those composed predominantly of pigment and those composed primarily of cholesterol. Pigment stones probably form when unconjugated pigments in the bile precipitate to form stones; these stones account for 10% to 25% of cases in the United States. There are no gallstones with the names of pearl, patterned, or pixelated.

The nurse cares for a client with cholecystitis with severe biliary colic symptoms. Which nursing intervention best promotes adequate respirations in a client with these symptoms? -Place the client in semi-Fowler's position. -Encourage the client to deep breathe and cough. -Instruct the client on the proper use of an incentive spirometer. -Encourage the client to ambulate frequently.

-Place the client in semi-Fowler's position. A client with severe biliary colic is in extreme pain and has a very difficult time taking a deep breath due to severe pain on inspiration. Placing the client in upright or semi-Fowler's position best promotes adequate breathing and best supports the client's function. Ambulation, deep breathing and coughing, and incentive spirometry may be too difficult or impossible for the client with severe biliary colic symptoms.

When caring for a client with acute pancreatitis, the nurse should use which comfort measure? -Administering an analgesic once per shift, as ordered, to prevent drug addiction -Positioning the client on the side with the knees flexed -Encouraging frequent visits from family and friends -Administering frequent oral feedings

-Positioning the client on the side with the knees flexed The nurse should place the client with acute pancreatitis in a side-lying position with knees flexed; this position promotes comfort by decreasing pressure on the abdominal muscles. The nurse should administer an analgesic, as needed and ordered, before pain becomes severe, rather than once each shift. Because the client needs a quiet, restful environment during the acute disease stage, the nurse should discourage frequent visits from family and friends. Frequent oral feedings are contraindicated during the acute stage to allow the pancreas to rest.

Because clients with pancreatitis cannot tolerate high-glucose concentrations, total parental nutrition (TPN) should be used cautiously with them. Which of the following interventions has shown great promise in the prognosis of clients with severe acute pancreatitis? -Providing intensive insulin therapy -Allowiing a clear liquid diet during the acute phase -Administering oral analgesics around the clock -Maintaining a high-Fowler's position

-Providing intensive insulin therapy Intensive insulin therapy (continuous infusion) in the critically ill client has undergone much study and has shown promise in terms of positive client outcomes when compared with intermittent insulin dosing. Glycemic control with normal or near normal blood glucose levels improves client outcomes. Total parental nutrition (TPN) is used carefully in clients with pancreatitis because some clients cannot tolerate a high-glucose concentration, even with insulin coverage. Clients with pancreatitis should not be given high-fat foods because they are difficult to digest. The current recommendation for pain management in this population is parenteral opioids. The nurse should maintain the client in a semi-Fowler's position to reduce pressure on the diaphragm.

A client diagnosed with acute pancreatitis is being transferred to another facility. The nurse caring for the client completes the transfer summary, which includes information about the client's drinking history and other assessment findings. Which assessment findings confirm his diagnosis? -Recent weight loss and temperature elevation -Presence of blood in the client's stool and recent hypertension -Presence of easy bruising and bradycardia -Adventitious breath sounds and hypertension

-Recent weight loss and temperature elevation Assessment findings associated with pancreatitis include recent weight loss and temperature elevation. Inflammation of the pancreas causes a response that elevates temperature and leads to abdominal pain that typically occurs with eating. Nausea and vomiting may occur as a result of pancreatic tissue damage that's caused by the activation of pancreatic enzymes. The client may experience weight loss because of the lost desire to eat. Blood in stools and recent hypertension aren't associated with pancreatitis; fatty diarrhea and hypotension are usually present. Presence of easy bruising and bradycardia aren't found with pancreatitis; the client typically experiences tachycardia, not bradycardia. Adventitious breath sounds and hypertension aren't associated with pancreatitis.

A client is admitted to the health care facility with abdominal pain, a low-grade fever, abdominal distention, and weight loss. The physician diagnoses acute pancreatitis. What is the primary goal of nursing care for this client? -Relieving abdominal pain -Preventing fluid volume overload -Maintaining adequate nutritional status -Teaching about the disease and its treatment

-Relieving abdominal pain The predominant clinical feature of acute pancreatitis is abdominal pain, which usually reaches peak intensity several hours after onset of the illness. Therefore, relieving abdominal pain is the nurse's primary goal. Because acute pancreatitis causes nausea and vomiting, the nurse should try to prevent fluid volume deficit, not overload. The nurse can't help the client achieve adequate nutrition or understand the disease and its treatment until the client is comfortable and no longer in pain.

A client being treated for pancreatitis faces the risk of atelectasis. Which of the following interventions would be important to implement to minimize this risk? -Monitor pulse oximetry every hour. -Withhold oral feedings for the client. -Instruct the client to avoid coughing. -Reposition the client every 2 hours.

-Reposition the client every 2 hours. Repositioning the client every 2 hours minimizes the risk of atelectasis in a client who is being treated for pancreatitis. The client should be instructed to cough every 2 hours to reduce atelectasis. Monitoring the pulse oximetry helps show changes in respiratory status and promote early intervention, but it would do little to minimize the risk of atelectasis. Withholding oral feedings limits the reflux of bile and duodenal contents into the pancreatic duct.

A nurse is teaching a client about the cause of acute pancreatitis. The nurse evaluates the teaching as effective when the client correctly identifies which condition as a cause of acute pancreatitis? -Fibrosis and atrophy of the pancreatic gland -Calcification of the pancreatic duct, leading to its blockage -Self-digestion of the pancreas by its own proteolytic enzymes -Use of loop diuretics to increase the incidence of pancreatitis

-Self-digestion of the pancreas by its own proteolytic enzymes Self-digestion of the pancreas by its own proteolytic enzymes, principally trypsin, causes acute pancreatitis. Of clients with acute pancreatitis, 80% had undiagnosed chronic pancreatitis. Gallstones enter the common bile duct and lodge at the ampulla of Vater, obstructing the flow of pancreatic juice or causing a reflux of bile from the common bile duct into the pancreatic duct, thus activating the powerful enzymes within the pancreas. Normally, these remain in an inactive form until the pancreatic secretions reach the lumen of the duodenum. Activation of the enzymes can lead to vasodilation, increased vascular permeability, necrosis, erosion, and hemorrhage.

A client comes to the ED with severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. The physician plans to rule out acute pancreatitis. The nurse would expect the diagnosis to be confirmed by an elevated result on which laboratory test? -Serum calcium -Serum bilirubin -Serum amylase -Serum potassium

-Serum amylase Serum amylase and lipase concentrations are used to make the diagnosis of acute pancreatitis. Serum amylase and lipase concentrations are elevated within 24 hours of the onset of symptoms. Serum amylase usually returns to normal within 48 to 72 hours, but the serum lipase concentration may remain elevated for a longer period, often days longer than amylase. Urinary amylase concentrations also become elevated and remain elevated longer than serum amylase concentrations.

A client is diagnosed with gallstones in the bile ducts. The nurse knows to review the results of blood work for a -Serum ammonia concentration of 90 mg/dL -Serum albumin concentration of 4.0 g/dL -Serum bilirubin level greater than 1.0 mg/dL -Serum globulin concentration of 2.0 g/dL

-Serum bilirubin level greater than 1.0 mg/dL Jaundice occurs in a few clients with gallbladder disease, usually with obstruction of the common bile duct. If the flow of bile is impeded (eg, by gallstones in the bile ducts), bilirubin does not enter the intestine. As a result, blood levels of bilirubin increase.

Which is the most common report by clients with pancreatitis? -Tarry, black stools and dark urine -Increased and painful urination -Increased appetite and weight gain -Severe, radiating abdominal pain

-Severe, radiating abdominal pain Clients with pancreatitis most commonly report severe mid- to upper-abdominal pain, radiating to both sides and straight to the back. The client may describe the stools as being frothy and foul smelling, not black or tarry. The client's urine may be dark. The client will not experience increased or painful urination, increased appetite, or weight gain.

A nursing instructor is explaining the pathophysiology and clinical manifestations of pancreatitis to a group of nursing students. The instructor evaluates the teaching as effective when a student correctly identifies which symptom as that most commonly reported by clients with pancreatitis? -Tarry, black stools and dark urine -Increased and painful urination -Increased appetite and weight gain -Severe, radiating abdominal pain

-Severe, radiating abdominal pain Severe abdominal pain is the major symptom of pancreatitis that causes the client to seek medical care. The pain occurs in the midepigastrium. Abdominal pain and tenderness and back pain result from irritation and edema of the inflamed pancreas. Pain is frequently acute in onset, occurring 24 to 48 hours after a very heavy meal or alcohol ingestion; it may be diffuse and difficult to localize.

A client who has been having recurrent attacks of severe abdominal pain over the past few months informs the physician about a 25-pound weight loss in the past year. The nurse attributes which factor as the most likely cause of this weight loss? -Vomiting after heavy meals -Skipping meals out of fear of painful attacks -Ingesting a low-fat diet to prevent abdominal pain -Malabsorption

-Skipping meals out of fear of painful attacks Weight loss is a major problem in chronic pancreatitis. More than 80% of clients experience significant weight loss, which is usually caused by decreased dietary intake secondary to anorexia or fear that eating will precipitate another attack.

A patient with acute pancreatitis puts the call bell on to tell the nurse about an increase in pain. The nurse observes the patient guarding; the abdomen is boardlike and no bowel sounds are detected. What is the major concern for this patient? -The patient requires more pain medication. -The patient is developing a paralytic ileus. -The patient has developed peritonitis. -The patient has developed renal failure.

-The patient has developed peritonitis. Abdominal guarding is present. A rigid or boardlike abdomen may develop and is generally an ominous sign, usually indicating peritonitis (Privette et al., 2011).

The physician has written the following orders for a new client admitted with pancreatitis: bed rest, nothing by mouth (NPO), and administration of total parenteral nutrition (TPN) . Which does the nurse attribute as the reason for NPO status? -To drain the pancreatic bed -To aid opening up of pancreatic duct -To prevent the occurrence of fibrosis -To avoid inflammation of the pancreas

-To avoid inflammation of the pancreas Pancreatic secretion is increased by food and fluid intake and may cause inflammation of the pancreas.

A client is admitted to the health care center with severe abdominal pain rated 10 on a 1-to-10 scale, tachycardia, hypertension, and muscle spasms. The nurse immediately administers morphine sulfate 4 mg slow intravenous pyelogram (IVP), as ordered. The nurse plans for which goal after administration of this mediation? -To increase the client's pain threshold -To control muscle spasms -To control blood pressure -To diagnose the cause of abdominal pain

-To increase the client's pain threshold Morphine, fentanyl, and hydromorphone act by depressing the central nervous system, thereby increasing the client's pain threshold.

What is a major concern for the nurse when caring for a patient with chronic pancreatitis? -Pain -Weight loss -Nausea -Mental status changes

-Weight loss Weight loss is a major problem in chronic pancreatitis. More than 80% of patients experience significant weight loss, which is usually caused by decreased dietary intake secondary to anorexia or fear that eating will precipitate another attack (Bope & Kellerman, 2011).

Which nursing action is most appropriate for a client hospitalized with acute pancreatitis? -Withholding all oral intake, as ordered, to decrease pancreatic secretions -Administering meperedine, as ordered, to relieve severe pain -Limiting I.V. fluids, as ordered, to decrease cardiac workload -Keeping the client supine to increase comfort

-Withholding all oral intake, as ordered, to decrease pancreatic secretions The nurse should withhold all oral intake to suppress pancreatic secretions, which may worsen pancreatitis. Typically, this client requires a nasogastric tube to decompress the stomach and GI tract. Although pancreatitis may cause considerable pain, it's treated with I.M. meperidine (Demerol), not morphine, which may worsen pain by inducing spasms of the pancreatic and biliary ducts. No clinical evidence supports the use of meperidine for pain relief in pancreatitis, and, in fact, accumulation of its metabolites can cause CNS irritability and possibly seizures. Pancreatitis places the client at risk for fluid volume deficit from fluid loss caused by increased capillary permeability. Therefore, this client needs fluid resuscitation, not fluid restriction. A client with pancreatitis is most comfortable lying on the side with knees flexed.

The digestion of carbohydrates is aided by -lipase. -amylase. -trypsin. -secretin.

-amylase. Amylase is secreted by the exocrine pancreas. Lipase aids in the digestion of fats. Trypsin aids in the digestion of proteins. Secretin is the major stimulus for increased bicarbonate secretion from the pancreas.

Total parental nutrition (TPN) should be used cautiously in clients with pancreatitis because they -are at risk for gallbladder contraction. -are at risk for hepatic encephalopathy. -can digest high-fat foods. -cannot tolerate a high glucose concentration.

-cannot tolerate a high glucose concentration. Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) is used carefully in clients with pancreatitis because some clients cannot tolerate a high glucose concentration, even with insulin coverage. Intake of coffee increases the risk for gallbladder contraction, whereas high protein intake increases risk for hepatic encephalopathy in clients with cirrhosis. Clients with pancreatitis should not be given high-fat foods because they are difficult to digest.

A client with cholelithiasis has a gallstone lodged in the common bile duct. When assessing this client, the nurse expects to note: -yellow sclerae. -light amber urine. -circumoral pallor. -black, tarry stools.

-yellow sclerae. Yellow sclerae are an early sign of jaundice, which occurs when the common bile duct is obstructed. Urine normally is light amber. Circumoral pallor and black, tarry stools don't occur in common bile duct obstruction; they are signs of hypoxia and GI bleeding, respectively.

A client is evaluated for severe pain in the right upper abdominal quadrant, which is accompanied by nausea and vomiting. The physician diagnoses acute cholecystitis and cholelithiasis. For this client, which nursing diagnosis takes top priority?

Acute pain related to biliary spasms The chief symptom of cholecystitis is abdominal pain or biliary colic. Typically, the pain is so severe that the client is restless and changes positions frequently to find relief. Therefore, the nursing diagnosis of Acute pain related to biliary spasms takes highest priority. Until the acute pain is relieved, the client can't learn about prevention, may continue to experience anxiety, and can't address nutritional concerns.

A client with a history of alcohol abuse comes to the emergency department and complains of abdominal pain. Laboratory studies help confirm a diagnosis of acute pancreatitis. The client's vital signs are stable, but the client's pain is worsening and radiating to his back. Which intervention takes priority for this client?

Administering morphine I.V. as ordered The nurse should address the client's pain issues first by administering morphine I.V. as ordered. Placing the client in a Semi-Fowler's position, maintaining NPO status, and providing mouth care don't take priority over addressing the client's pain issues.

Clinical manifestations of common bile duct obstruction include all of the following except: Amber-colored urine Clay-colored feces Pruritus Jaundice

Amber-colored urine The excretion of the bile pigments by the kidneys gives the urine a very dark color. The feces, no longer colored with bile pigments, are grayish, like putty, or clay-colored. The symptoms may be acute or chronic. Epigastric distress, such as fullness, abdominal distention, and vague pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen, may occur. If it goes untreated jaundice and pruritus can occur.

A patient has been admitted to the intensive care unit with a diagnosis of acute pancreatitis. Which of the following laboratory values will the nurse prioritize when gauging the course of his disease? Select all that apply.

Amylase Lipase White blood cells (WBCs)

A client who had developed jaundice 2 months earlier is brought to the ED after attending a party and developing excruciating pain that radiated over the abdomen and into the back. Upon assessment, which additional symptom would the nurse expect this client to have?

Bile-stained vomiting Nausea and vomiting are common in acute pancreatitis. The emesis is usually gastric in origin but may also be bile stained. Fever, jaundice, mental confusion, and agitation may also occur.

Which foods should be avoided following acute gallbladder inflammation?

Cheese The client should avoid eggs, cream, pork, fried foods, cheese, rich dressings, gas-forming vegetables, and alcohol. It is important to remind the client that fatty foods may induce an episode of cholecystitis. Cooked fruits, rice or tapioca, lean meats, mashed potatoes, non-gas-forming vegetables, bread, coffee, or tea may be consumed as tolerated.

A very ill client with acute cholecystitis is scheduled for surgery. The surgeon plans to create an incision in the common bile duct to remove stones. The nurse correctly documents this surgery in the electronic medical record using which term?

Choledochostomy

The nurse identifies a potential collaborative problem of electrolyte imbalance for a client with severe acute pancreatitis. Which assessment finding alerts the nurse to an electrolyte imbalance associated with acute pancreatitis?

Muscle twitching and finger numbness Muscle twitching and finger numbness indicate hypocalcemia, a potential complication of acute pancreatitis. Calcium may be prescribed to prevent or treat tetany, which may result from calcium losses into retroperitoneal (peripancreatic) exudate.

A client diagnosed with acute pancreatitis is being transferred to another facility. The nurse caring for the client completes the transfer summary, which includes information about the client's drinking history and other assessment findings. Which assessment findings confirm the diagnosis of acute pancreatitis?

Pain with abdominal distention and hypotension

Which condition is the major cause of morbidity and mortality in clients with acute pancreatitis?

Pancreatic necrosis Pancreatic necrosis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in clients with acute pancreatitis. Shock and multiple organ failure may occur with acute pancreatitis.

Which condition is most likely to have a nursing diagnosis of fluid volume deficit?

Pancreatitis Hypovolemic shock from fluid shifts is a major factor in acute pancreatitis. Appendicitis, cholecystitis, and gastric ulcer are less likely to exhibit fluid volume deficit.

A client with pancreatitis is admitted to the medical intensive care unit. Which nursing intervention is most appropriate?

Reserving an antecubital site for a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) Pancreatitis treatment typically involves resting the GI tract by maintaining nothing-by-mouth status. The nurse should reserve the antecubital site for a PICC, which enables the client to receive long-term total parenteral nutrition. Clients in the acute stages of pancreatitis also require large volumes of I.V. fluids to compensate for fluid loss.

A nurse is teaching a client about the cause of acute pancreatitis. The nurse evaluates the teaching as effective when the client correctly identifies which condition as a cause of acute pancreatitis?

Self-digestion of the pancreas by its own proteolytic enzymes Self-digestion of the pancreas by its own proteolytic enzymes, principally trypsin, causes acute pancreatitis. Of clients with acute pancreatitis, 80% had undiagnosed chronic pancreatitis. Gallstones enter the common bile duct and lodge at the ampulla of Vater, obstructing the flow of pancreatic juice or causing a reflux of bile from the common bile duct into the pancreatic duct, thus activating the powerful enzymes within the pancreas. Normally, these remain in an inactive form until the pancreatic secretions reach the lumen of the duodenum. Activation of the enzymes can lead to vasodilation, increased vascular permeability, necrosis, erosion, and hemorrhage.

A client comes to the ED with severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. The physician plans to rule out acute pancreatitis. The nurse would expect the diagnosis to be confirmed by an elevated result on which laboratory test?

Serum Amylase Serum amylase and lipase concentrations are used to make the diagnosis of acute pancreatitis. Serum amylase and lipase concentrations are elevated within 24 hours of the onset of symptoms. Serum amylase usually returns to normal within 48 to 72 hours, but the serum lipase concentration may remain elevated for a longer period, often days longer than amylase. Urinary amylase concentrations also become elevated and remain elevated longer than serum amylase concentrations.

A client is diagnosed with gallstones in the bile ducts. The nurse knows to review the results of blood work for a

Serum bilirubin level greater than 1.0 mg/dL Jaundice occurs in a few clients with gallbladder disease, usually with obstruction of the common bile duct. If the flow of bile is impeded (eg, by gallstones in the bile ducts), bilirubin does not enter the intestine. As a result, blood levels of bilirubin increase.

`The nurse is admitting a patient to the intensive care unit with a diagnosis of acute pancreatitis. What does the nurse expect was the reason the patient came to the hospital?

Severe abdominal pain Severe abdominal pain is the major symptom of pancreatitis that causes the patient to seek medical care. Abdominal pain and tenderness and back pain result from irritation and edema of the inflamed pancreas.

Which is the most common report by clients with pancreatitis?

Severe, radiating abdominal pain Clients with pancreatitis most commonly report severe mid- to upper-abdominal pain, radiating to both sides and straight to the back. The client may describe the stools as being frothy and foul smelling, not black or tarry. The client's urine may be dark. The client will not experience increased or painful urination, increased appetite, or weight gain.

A client who has been having recurrent attacks of severe abdominal pain over the past few months informs the physician about a 25-pound weight loss in the past year. The nurse attributes which factor as the most likely cause of this weight loss?

Skipping meals out of fear of painful attacks Weight loss is a major problem in chronic pancreatitis. More than 80% of clients experience significant weight loss, which is usually caused by decreased dietary intake secondary to anorexia or fear that eating will precipitate another attack.

A patient with acute pancreatitis puts the call bell on to tell the nurse about an increase in pain. The nurse observes the patient guarding; the abdomen is board-like and no bowel sounds are detected. What is the major concern for this patient?

The patient has developed peritonitis.

A patient with acute pancreatitis puts the call bell on to tell the nurse about an increase in pain. The nurse observes the patient guarding; the abdomen is boardlike and no bowel sounds are detected. What is the major concern for this patient?

The patient has developed peritonitis. Abdominal guarding is present. A rigid or boardlike abdomen may develop and is generally an ominous sign, usually indicating peritonitis

A client discharged after a laparoscopic cholecystectomy calls the surgeon's office reporting severe right shoulder pain 24 hours after surgery. Which statement is the correct information for the nurse to provide to this client?

This pain is caused from the gas used to inflate your abdominal area during surgery. Sitting upright in a chair, walking, or using a heating pad may ease the discomfort

The nurse knows that the client with cholelithiasis can have a nutritional deficiency. The obstruction of bile flow due to cholelithiasis can interfere with the absorption of

Vitamin A

A client with carcinoma of the head of the pancreas is scheduled for surgery. Which of the following should a nurse administer to the client before surgery?

Vitamin K Clients with carcinoma of the head of the pancreas typically require vitamin K before surgery to correct a prothrombin deficiency. Potassium would be given only if the client's serum potassium levels were low.

What is a major concern for the nurse when caring for a patient with chronic pancreatitis?

Weight loss Weight loss is a major problem in chronic pancreatitis. More than 80% of patients experience significant weight loss, which is usually caused by decreased dietary intake secondary to anorexia or fear that eating will precipitate another attack

Which nursing action is most appropriate for a client hospitalized with acute pancreatitis?

Withholding all oral intake, as ordered, to decrease pancreatic secretions The nurse should withhold all oral intake to suppress pancreatic secretions, which may worsen pancreatitis. Typically, this client requires a nasogastric tube to decompress the stomach and GI tract. Although pancreatitis may cause considerable pain, it's treated with I.M. meperidine (Demerol), not morphine, which may worsen pain by inducing spasms of the pancreatic and biliary ducts.

Total parental nutrition (TPN) should be used cautiously in clients with pancreatitis because they

cannot tolerate a high glucose concentration.

Total parental nutrition (TPN) should be used cautiously in clients with pancreatitis because such clients:

cannot tolerate high-glucose concentration.

A nurse is preparing a client for surgery. During preoperative teaching, the client asks where is bile stored. The nurse knows that bile is stored in the:

gallbladder