Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas. It occurs when enzymes in the pancreas start digesting their own tissue, known as autodigestion. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, with pancreatitis being acute or chronic. Acute pancreatitis will cause severe abdominal pain and tenderness often radiating to the back along with abdominal distention, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Chronic pancreatitis may also present with the same symptoms or it may be asymptomatic. Show The most common causes of pancreatitis are gallstones and alcohol abuse. Other potential causes for pancreatitis include genetics, smoking, celiac disease, infections, hypercalcemia, and certain medications. Pancreatitis is diagnosed by a physical exam and lab tests, which check for elevated pancreatic enzymes. Ultrasounds and CT scans assess for inflammation and gallstones. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) can reveal strictures. ERCP can repair strictures and remove gallstones. Removal of the gallbladder may be necessary if gallstones are the cause of pancreatitis. Otherwise, treatment is supportive including IV fluids, pain management, and diet restriction. The Nursing ProcessNurses can expect to care for patients with pancreatitis in inpatient settings. The pain associated with inflammation and the need for IV fluids requires some patients with pancreatitis to be hospitalized. The nurse can also expect to provide education regarding lifestyle changes such as avoiding alcohol and smoking and making diet changes. Nursing Care Plans Related to PancreatitisAcute Pain Care PlanPain associated with pancreatitis can be caused by inflammation of the pancreas and obstruction of the biliary ducts. Nursing Diagnosis: Acute Pain Related to:
As evidenced by:
Expected Outcomes:
Acute Pain Assessment1. Assess for pain. 2 . Assess for abdominal tenderness. 3. Observe changes in vitals and nonverbal cues. Acute Pain Interventions1. Administer pain medications routinely. 2. Maintain NPO status and suctioning. 3. Provide alternative pain management. 4. Promote a position of comfort. Imbalanced Nutrition: Less Than Body Requirements Care PlanPatients with pancreatitis can experience an imbalance in nutrition due to their lack of appetite and impaired digestion from inflammation in the pancreas. Nursing Diagnosis: Imbalanced Nutrition Related to:
As evidenced by:
Expected Outcomes:
Imbalanced Nutrition: Less Than Body Requirements Assessment1. Assess current nutrition. 2. Assess for hyperglycemia. 3. Monitor labs. Imbalanced Nutrition: Less Than Body Requirements Interventions1. Provide nutritional support. 2. Provide optimal oral hygiene. 3. Administer antiemetics when needed. 4. Provide nutritional supplements. Deficient Knowledge Care PlanPatients with pancreatitis may not know what triggered the onset and what they can do, or what they can avoid, to help symptoms from recurring. Nursing Diagnosis: Deficient Knowledge Related to:
As evidenced by:
Expected Outcomes:
Deficient Knowledge Assessment1. Assess willingness to learn. 2. Assess learning styles. 3. Assess the patient’s knowledge. Deficient Knowledge Interventions1. Use multiple learning techniques. 2. Ensure a comfortable learning environment. 3. Provide supportive treatment resources. 4. Stress the importance of follow-up. References and Sources
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