Question 11 A patient diagnosed with acute pancreatitis is demonstrating signs of respiratory distress. What physiologic rationale would the nurse explain for this change in respiratory assessment? 1. Pancreatic enzymes can destroy a component of surfactant. 2. Increase in the size of the abdomen may cause atelectasis. 3. Increased intracranial pressure from pancreatic damage reduces neurological control of respiratory rate and depth. 4. Inflammation of the diaphragm may result in pleural effusion. 5. Lung damage may occur from factors released systemically. Question 12 A patient with acute pancreatitis is demonstrating signs of hypovolemic shock. The nurse will conduct additional assessment for which expected cause of this hypovolemia? 1. Increased urine output 2. Undiagnosed gastrointestinal ulcerations 3. Pulmonary edema 4. Fluid shifts and decreased vascular resistance Question 13 The nurse is caring for a patient with acute pancreatitis demonstrating signs of hypovolemic shock. Which interventions will be included in this patient’s plan of care? 1. Administer high doses of potassium. 2. Monitor pulmonary arterial wedge pressure. 3. Administer several liters of intravenous fluids in the first few hours of treatment. 4. Administer anticholinergic medication. 5. Monitor central venous pressure. Question 14 A patient is diagnosed with subtotal pancreatic necrosis. Which intervention would the nurse include in this patient’s plan of care? 1. Maintain bedrest. 2. Restrict fluids. 3. Administer proton pump inhibitor. 4. Monitor arterial blood gases. Question 15 The nurse is caring for a patient with acute pancreatitis experiencing pain. How would the nurse expect to treat this pain? 1. Acetaminophen 2. NSAIDs 3. Demerol 4. Morphine Question 16 The nurse has chosen Ineffective Gas Exchange for a patient with acute pancreatitis. What interventions are indicated for this patient? 1. Administer analgesics as prescribed. 2. Monitor for ileus development. 3. Treat inflammatory response. 4. Ambulate as tolerated. 5. Avoid opioid medications. Question 17 A patient diagnosed with acute pancreatitis is nauseated and frequently vomits. The nurse would assign with nursing diagnosis? 1. Altered Comfort 2. Acute Pain 3. Risk for Injury 4. Risk for Infection Question 18 A patient will have a magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) to evaluate for pancreatitis. What information would the nurse provide regarding this test? 1. A small plug of tissue will be removed for biopsy. 2. This test is invasive and will require conscious sedation. 3. This test will allow direct visualization of the pancreatic duct. 4. No contrast is used for this test. Question 19 A patient with acute pancreatitis has been treated to minimize pancreatic stimulation, but vomiting continues. The nurse would anticipate which intervention? 1. NPO status 2. Placement of a nasogastric tube to intermittent suction 3. Administration of morphine 4. Increased ambulation Question 20 The nurse is participating in the use of Ranson’s criteria to assess a patient with pancreatitis. Which statement reflects a disadvantage of using these criteria? 1. It takes 48 hours for complete assessment. 2. Ranson’s criteria are not valid for patients over 55. 3. This scoring system is not useful for persons with renal disease. 4. Invasive testing is necessary as part of Ranson’s criteria.