A community health nurse is caring for a patient whose multiple health problems include chronic pancreatitis
During the most recent visit, the nurse notes that the patient is experiencing severe abdominal pain and has vomited 3 times in the past several hours. What is the nurse's most appropriate action?
A) Administer a PRN dose of pancreatic enzymes as ordered.
B) Teach the patient about the importance of abstaining from alcohol.
C) Arrange for the patient to be transported to the hospital.
D) Insert an NG tube, if available, and stay with the patient.
Ans: C
Feedback:
Chronic pancreatitis is characterized by recurring attacks of severe upper abdominal and back pain, accompanied by vomiting. The onset of these acute symptoms warrants hospital treatment. Pancreatic enzymes are not indicated and an NG tube would not be inserted in the home setting. Patient education is a later priority that may or may not be relevant.
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