The nurse is caring for a client with chronic pancreatitis who reports persistent gnawing abdominal pain. To help the client manage the pain, which assessment data is most important for the nurse to obtain?
Activity level of bowel sounds.
Level and amount of physical activity.
Color and consistency of feces.
Eating patterns of dietary intake.
The Correct Answer is D
A. While bowel sounds can indicate gastrointestinal activity, they do not directly correlate with pain management or the underlying cause of abdominal discomfort in chronic pancreatitis.
B. The level and amount of physical activity may impact overall well-being but are less directly related to the management of abdominal pain from pancreatitis.
C. The color and consistency of feces can provide some information regarding pancreatic function and fat absorption but is not the most immediate factor affecting pain management.
D. Understanding the client’s eating patterns, including food triggers and timing, is crucial because certain foods can exacerbate abdominal pain in chronic pancreatitis. Dietary adjustments can significantly help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. While sipping fluids with meals can help prevent discomfort, it is generally recommended to avoid drinking fluids during meals to minimize the risk of overfilling the stomach.
B. Reducing intake of fatty foods is important, but it is not as critical as managing portion sizes and meal frequency after gastric bypass surgery.
C. Eating small frequent meals is crucial after gastric bypass surgery because it helps manage the reduced stomach capacity and promotes better nutrient absorption while preventing dumping syndrome and discomfort.
D. Chewing slowly and thoroughly is a good practice to aid digestion, but it is not as essential as the need for portion control and meal frequency following the surgery.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Throbbing pain can be a common response after a fracture and cast application but does not necessarily indicate an emergency situation.
B. Circumferential edema could suggest complications, but it is not as immediately concerning as the vascular status of the limb.
C. An increased temperature in the lower extremity could indicate inflammation or infection, but it does not require immediate intervention compared to signs of impaired circulation.
D. A pale foot with sluggish capillary refill suggests compromised blood flow, which is a medical emergency requiring immediate assessment and intervention to prevent ischemia or compartment syndrome.