Paola Luz Cruz

WEEK 3 COURSE TASK 3

1. Explain the pathophysiology of acute pancreatitis.

Acute pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas. It is painful, develops quickly, in some
cases, it can be fatal. characterized by a loss of intracellular and extracellular compartmentation,
by an obstruction of pancreatic secretory transport and also by activation of pancreatic
enzymes.

2. What are the most common causes of pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis causes are gall stones and increased intake of alcohol.

3. How do the results of V.A’s laboratory values relate to pathophysiology of acute pancreatitis?
Serum amylase and lipase levels are elevated in persons with acute pancreatitis.

4. What causes hypocalcemia in acute pancreatitis? How does the nurse assess for
hypocalcemia?
Increased circulating catecholamines in sepsis cause a shift of circulating calcium into the
intracellular compartment leading to relative hypocalcemia in the body.

5. Describe the characteristics of pain in pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis signs and symptoms include: Upper abdominal pain. that radiates to your
back which feels worse after eating. and also pain felt in the upper left side or middle of the
abdomen.

6. What complications can occur in pancreatitis?

The major complications are Pseudocyst which means acute pancreatitis can cause fluid and
debris to collect in cystlike pockets in your pancreas diabetes , malnutrition and pancreatic
cancer

7. Why is V.A NPO? What is the purpose of NG Tube?

Nasogastric tube (NG tube) is a special tube that carries food and medicine to the stomach
through the nose

8. Identify the purpose of each medication prescribed for this patient.

Morphine PCA – For pain
Pantroprazole PCA - reduces the amount of acid your stomach makes

9. Priority decision: Based on the assessment data presented, what are the priority nursing
diagnoses? Are there any collaborative problems?
Acute Pain – this should be addressed first
Risk for deficient fluid volume