A patient admitted with acute pancreatitis has a nasogastric tube, is in pain, and is on bed rest. The patient says, "I don't understand why I can't eat." How should the nurse respond?
1. Start the patient on a small amount of clear liquids.
2. Explain the purpose of the nasogastric tube and the reasons for keeping the patient NPO.
3. Tell the patient that pain medication is limited to prevent addiction.
4. Tell the patient that IV fluids are sufficient for now.
2
Rationale 1: As long as the pain continues, the pancreas should be rested by restricting food.
Rationale 2: The patient must understand the purpose of the treatment plan. Explaining the need for being NPO is important.
Rationale 3: Addiction should not be a factor in treating patients in acute pain.
Rationale 4: Saying that IV fluids are sufficient is dismissive of the patient's concern. If the patient is receiving TPN, that should be explained. If the patient is only receiving fluids, they are not sufficient to sustain life over the long term.
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When writing a conversion factor as a fraction, the quantity of units you are converting from goes in the
denominator of the conversion factor. Indicate whether the statement is true or false
The nurse assists during client intubation and assesses the client for asymmetrical chest movement. Which is the best method for the nurse to use to evaluate airway placement?
1. Obtain a chest x-ray. 2. Auscultate lung sounds. 3. Measure respiratory rate. 4. Check oxygen saturation.