Liver/Cirrhosis/Gallbladder/Pancreas
A nurse is caring for a patient with liver failure and is performing an assessment in the knowledge of the
patients increased risk of bleeding. The nurse recognizes that this risk is related to the patient’s inability to
synthesize prothrombin in the liver. What factor most likely contributes to this loss of function?
A) Alterations in glucose metabolism
B) Retention of bile salts
C) Inadequate production of albumin by hepatocytes
D) Inability of the liver to use vitamin K
Ans: D
Feedback:
Decreased production of several clotting factors may be partially due to deficient absorption of vitamin
K from the GI tract. This probably is caused by the inability of liver cells to use vitamin K to make
prothrombin. This bleeding risk is unrelated to the roles of glucose, bile salts, or albumin.
A nurse is performing an admission assessment of a patient with a diagnosis of cirrhosis. What
technique should the nurse use to palpate the patients liver?
A) Place hand under the right lower abdominal quadrant and press down lightly with the other hand.
B) Place the left hand over the abdomen and behind the left side at the 11th rib.
C) Place hand under right lower rib cage and press down lightly with the other hand.
D) Hold hand 90 degrees to right side of the abdomen and push down firmly.
Ans: C
Feedback:
To palpate the liver, the examiner places one hand under the right lower rib cage and presses downward
with light pressure with the other hand. The liver is not on the left side or in the right lower abdominal
quadrant.
A patient with portal hypertension has been admitted to the medical floor. The nurse should prioritize
which of the following assessments related to the manifestations of this health problem?
A) Assessment of blood pressure and assessment for headaches and visual changes
B) Assessments for signs and symptoms of venous thromboembolism
C) Daily weights and abdominal girth measurement
D) Blood glucose monitoring q4h
Ans: C
Feedback:
Obstruction to blood flow through the damaged liver results in increased blood pressure (portal
hypertension) throughout the portal venous system. This can result in varices and ascites in the
abdominal cavity. Assessments related to ascites are daily weights and abdominal girths. Portal
hypertension is not synonymous with cardiovascular hypertension and does not create a risk for unstable
blood glucose or VTE.
A nurse educator is teaching a group of recent nursing graduates about their occupational risks for
contracting hepatitis B. What preventative measures should the educator promote? Select all that apply.
A) Immunization
B) Use of standard precautions
C) Consumption of a vitamin-rich diet
D) Annual vitamin K injections
E) Annual vitamin B12 injections
Ans: A, B
Feedback:
People who are at high risk, including nurses and other health care personnel exposed to blood or blood
products, should receive active immunization. The consistent use of standard precautions is also highly
beneficial. Vitamin supplementation is unrelated to an individuals risk of HBV.
A triage nurse in the emergency department is assessing a patient who presented with complaints of
general malaise. Assessment reveals the presence of jaundice and increased abdominal girth. What
assessment question best addresses the possible etiology of this patients presentation?
A) How many alcoholic drinks do you typically consume in a week?
B) To the best of your knowledge, are your immunizations up to date?
C) Have you ever worked in an occupation where you might have been exposed to toxins?
D) Has anyone in your family ever experienced symptoms similar to yours?
Ans: A
Feedback:
Signs or symptoms of hepatic dysfunction indicate a need to assess for alcohol use. Immunization status,
occupational risks, and family history are also relevant considerations, but alcohol use is a more
common etiologic factor in liver disease.
A nurse is caring for a patient with hepatic encephalopathy. While making the initial shift assessment,
the nurse notes that the patient has a flapping tremor of the hands. The nurse should document the
presence of what sign of liver disease?
A) Asterixis
B) Constructional apraxia
C) Fetor hepaticus
D) Palmar erythema
Ans: A
Feedback:
The nurse will document that a patient exhibiting a flapping tremor of the hands is demonstrating
asterixis. While constructional apraxia is a motor disturbance, it is the inability to reproduce a simple
figure. Fetor hepaticus is a sweet, slightly fecal odor to the breath and not associated with a motor
disturbance. Skin changes associated with liver dysfunction may include palmar erythema, which is a
reddening of the palms but is not a flapping tremor.
A local public health nurse is informed that a cook in a local restaurant has been diagnosed with hepatitis
A. What should the nurse advise individuals to obtain who ate at this restaurant and have never received
the hepatitis A vaccine?
A) The hepatitis A vaccine
B) Albumin infusion
C) The hepatitis A and B vaccines
D) An immune globulin injection
Ans: D
Feedback:
For people who have not been previously vaccinated, hepatitis A can be prevented by the intramuscular
administration of immune globulin during the incubation period, if given within 2 weeks of exposure.
Administration of the hepatitis A vaccine will not protect the patient exposed to hepatitis A, as
protection will take a few weeks to develop after the first dose of the vaccine. The hepatitis B vaccine
provides protection again the hepatitis B virus, but plays no role in protection for the patient exposed to
hepatitis A. Albumin confers no therapeutic benefit.
A participant in a health fair has asked the nurse about the role of drugs in liver disease. What health
promotion teaching has the most potential to prevent drug-induced hepatitis?
A) Finish all prescribed courses of antibiotics, regardless of symptom resolution.
B) Adhere to dosing recommendations of OTC analgesics.
C) Ensure that expired medications are disposed of safely.
D) Ensure that pharmacists regularly review drug regimens for potential interactions.
Ans: B
Feedback:
though any medication can affect liver function, use of acetaminophen (found in many over-thecounter
medications used to treat fever and pain) has been identified as the leading cause of acute liver
failure. Finishing prescribed antibiotics and avoiding expired medications are unrelated to this disease.
Drug interactions are rarely the cause of drug-induced hepatitis.
A nurse is caring for a patient with hepatic encephalopathy. The nurses assessment reveals that the
patient exhibits episodes of confusion, is difficult to arouse from sleep and has rigid extremities. Based
on these clinical findings, the nurse should document what stage of hepatic encephalopathy?
A) Stage 1
B) Stage 2
C) Stage 3
D) Stage 4
Ans: C
Feedback:
Patients in the third stage of hepatic encephalopathy exhibit the following symptoms: stuporous, difficult
to arouse, sleeps most of the time, exhibits marked confusion, incoherent in speech, asterixis, increased
deep tendon reflexes, rigidity of extremities, marked EEG abnormalities. Patients in stages 1 and 2
exhibit clinical symptoms that are not as advanced as found in stage 3, and patients in stage 4 are
comatose. In stage 4, there is an absence of asterixis, absence of deep tendon reflexes, flaccidity of
extremities, and EEG abnormalities.
A patient has developed hepatic encephalopathy secondary to cirrhosis and is receiving care on the
medical unit. The patients current medication regimen includes lactulose (Cephulac) four times daily.
What desired outcome should the nurse relate to this pharmacologic intervention?
A) Two to 3 soft bowel movements daily
B) Significant increase in appetite and food intake
C) Absence of nausea and vomiting
D) Absence of blood or mucus in stool
Ans: A
Feedback:
Lactulose (Cephulac) is administered to reduce serum ammonia levels. Two or three soft stools per day
are desirable; this indicates that lactulose is performing as intended. Lactulose does not address the
patients appetite, symptoms of nausea and vomiting, or the development of blood and mucus in the
stool.
A nurse is performing an admission assessment for an 81-year-old patient who generally enjoys good
health. When considering normal, age-related changes to hepatic function, the nurse should anticipate
what finding?
A) Similar liver size and texture as in younger adults
B) A nonpalpable liver
C) A slightly enlarged liver with palpably hard edges
D) A slightly decreased size of the liver
Ans: D
Feedback:
The most common age-related change in the liver is a decrease in size and weight. The liver is usually
still palpable, however, and is not expected to have hardened edges.
A nurse is caring for a patient with a blocked bile duct from a tumor. What manifestation of obstructive
jaundice should the nurse anticipate?
A) Watery, blood-streaked diarrhea
B) Orange and foamy urine
C) Increased abdominal girth
D) Decreased cognition
Ans: B
Feedback:
If the bile duct is obstructed, the bile will be reabsorbed into the blood and carried throughout the entire
body. It is excreted in the urine, which becomes deep orange and foamy. Bloody diarrhea, ascites, and
cognitive changes are not associated with obstructive jaundice.
During a health education session, a participant has asked about the hepatitis E virus. What prevention
measure should the nurse recommend for preventing infection with this virus?
A) Following proper hand-washing techniques
B) Avoiding chemicals that are toxic to the liver
C) Wearing a condom during sexual contact
D) Limiting alcohol intake
Ans: A
Feedback:
Avoiding contact with the hepatitis E virus through good hygiene, including hand-washing, is the major
method of prevention. Hepatitis E is transmitted by the fecaloral route, principally through contaminated
water in areas with poor sanitation. Consequently, none of the other listed preventative measures is
indicated.
A patients physician has ordered a liver panel in response to the patients development of jaundice. When
reviewing the results of this laboratory testing, the nurse should expect to review what blood tests?
Select all that apply.
A) Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)
B) C-reactive protein (CRP)
C) Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT)
D) Aspartate aminotransferase (AST)
E) B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP)
Ans: A, C, D
Feedback:
Liver function testing includes GGT, ALT, and AST. CRP addresses the presence of generalized
inflammation and BNP is relevant to heart failure; neither is included in a liver panel.
A patient with liver disease has developed jaundice; the nurse is collaborating with the patient to develop
a nutritional plan. The nurse should prioritize which of the following in the patients plan?
A) Increased potassium intake
B) Fluid restriction to 2 L per day
C) Reduction in sodium intake
D) High-protein, low-fat diet
Ans: C
Feedback:
Patients with ascites require a sharp reduction in sodium intake. Potassium intake should not be
correspondingly increased. There is no need for fluid restriction or increased protein intake.
A nurse is amending a patients plan of care in light of the fact that the patient has recently developed
ascites. What should the nurse include in this patients care plan?
A) Mobilization with assistance at least 4 times daily
B) Administration of beta-adrenergic blockers as ordered
C) Vitamin B12 injections as ordered
D) Administration of diuretics as ordered
Ans: D
Feedback:
Use of diuretics along with sodium restriction is successful in 90% of patients with ascites. Betablockers
are not used to treat ascites and bed rest is often more beneficial than increased mobility.
Vitamin B12 injections are not necessary.
A nurse is caring for a patient who has been admitted for the treatment of advanced cirrhosis. What
assessment should the nurse prioritize in this patients plan of care?
A) Measurement of abdominal girth and body weight
B) Assessment for variceal bleeding
C) Assessment for signs and symptoms of jaundice
D) Monitoring of results of liver function testing
Ans: B
Feedback:
Esophageal varices are a major cause of mortality in patients with uncompensated cirrhosis.
Consequently, this should be a focus of the nurses assessments and should be prioritized over the other
listed assessments, even though each should be performed.
A patient with a diagnosis of cirrhosis has developed variceal bleeding and will imminently undergo
variceal banding. What psychosocial nursing diagnosis should the nurse most likely prioritize during this
A) Decisional Conflict
B) Deficient Knowledge
C) Death Anxiety
D) Disturbed Thought Processes
Ans: C
Feedback:
The sudden hemorrhage that accompanies variceal bleeding is intensely anxiety-provoking. The nurse
must address the patients likely fear of death, which is a realistic possibility. For most patients, anxiety is
likely to be a more acute concern than lack of knowledge or decisional conflict. The patient may or may
not experience disturbances in thought processes.
A patient with a diagnosis of esophageal varices has undergone endoscopy to gauge the progression of
this complication of liver disease. Following the completion of this diagnostic test, what nursing
intervention should the nurse perform?
A) Keep patient NPO until the results of test are known.
B) Keep patient NPO until the patients gag reflex returns.
C) Administer analgesia until post-procedure tenderness is relieved.
D) Give the patient a cold beverage to promote swallowing ability.
Ans: B
Feedback:
After the examination, fluids are not given until the patients gag reflex returns. Lozenges and gargles
may be used to relieve throat discomfort if the patients physical condition and mental status permit. The
result of the test is known immediately. Food and fluids are contraindicated until the gag reflex returns.
A patient with esophageal varices is being cared for in the ICU. The varices have begun to bleed and the
patient is at risk for hypovolemia. The patient has Ringers lactate at 150 cc/hr. infusing. What else might
the nurse expect to have ordered to maintain volume for this patient?
A) Arterial line
B) Diuretics
C) Foley catheter
D) Volume expanders
Ans: D
Feedback:
Because patients with bleeding esophageal varices have intravascular volume depletion and are subject
to electrolyte imbalance, IV fluids with electrolytes and volume expanders are provided to restore fluid
volume and replace electrolytes. Diuretics would reduce vascular volume. An arterial line and Foley
catheter are likely to be ordered, but neither actively maintains the patients volume.
A nurse is caring for a patient with cirrhosis secondary to heavy alcohol use. The nurses most recent
assessment reveals subtle changes in the patients cognition and behavior. What is the nurses most
appropriate response?
A) Ensure that the patients sodium intake does not exceed recommended levels.
B) Report this finding to the primary care provider due to the possibility of hepatic encephalopathy.
C) Inform the primary care provider that the patient should be assessed for alcoholic hepatitis.
D) Implement interventions aimed at ensuring a calm and therapeutic care environment.
Ans: B
Feedback:
Monitoring is an essential nursing function to identify early deterioration in mental status. The nurse
monitors the patients mental status closely and reports changes so that treatment of encephalopathy can
be initiated promptly. This change in status is likely unrelated to sodium intake and would not signal the
onset of hepatitis. A supportive care environment is beneficial, but does not address the patients
physiologic deterioration.
A patient with end-stage liver disease has developed hypervolemia. What nursing interventions would be
most appropriate when addressing the patients fluid volume excess? Select all that apply.
A) Administering diuretics
B) Administering calcium channel blockers
C) Implementing fluid restrictions
D) Implementing a 1500 kcal/day restriction
E) Enhancing patient positioning
Ans: A, C, E
Feedback:
Administering diuretics, implementing fluid restrictions, and enhancing patient positioning can optimize
the management of fluid volume excess. Calcium channel blockers and calorie restriction do not address
this problem.
A patient with liver cancer is being discharged home with a biliary drainage system in place. The nurse
should teach the patients family how to safely perform which of the following actions?
A) Aspirating bile from the catheter using a syringe
B) Removing the catheter when output is 15 mL in 24 hours
C) Instilling antibiotics into the catheter
D) Assessing the patency of the drainage catheter
Ans: D
Feedback:
Families should be taught to provide basic catheter care, including assessment of patency. Antibiotics
are not instilled into the catheter and aspiration using a syringe is contraindicated. The family would not
independently remove the catheter; this would be done by a member of the care team when deemed
necessary.
A patient with cirrhosis has experienced a progressive decline in his health; and liver transplantation is
being considered by the interdisciplinary team. How will the patients prioritization for receiving a donor
liver be determined?
A) By considering the patients age and prognosis
B) By objectively determining the patients medical need
C) By objectively assessing the patients willingness to adhere to post-transplantation care
D) By systematically ruling out alternative treatment options
Ans: B
Feedback:
The patient would undergo a classification of the degree of medical need through an objective
determination known as the Model of End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) classification, which stratifies
the level of illness of those awaiting a liver transplant. This algorithm considers multiple variables, not
solely age, prognosis, potential for adherence, and the rejection of alternative options.
A nurse has entered the room of a patient with cirrhosis and found the patient on the floor. The patient
states that she fell when transferring to the commode. The patients vital signs are within reference ranges
and the nurse observes no apparent injuries. What is the nurses most appropriate action?
A) Remove the patients commode and supply a bedpan.
B) Complete an incident report and submit it to the unit supervisor.
C) Have the patient assessed by the physician due to the risk of internal bleeding.
D) Perform a focused abdominal assessment in order to rule out injury.
Ans: C
Feedback:
A fall would necessitate thorough medical assessment due to the patients risk of bleeding. The nurses
abdominal assessment is an appropriate action, but is not wholly sufficient to rule out internal injury.
Medical assessment is a priority over removing the commode or filling out an incident report, even
though these actions are appropriate.
A nurse is caring for a patient with severe hemolytic jaundice. Laboratory tests show free bilirubin to be
24 mg/dL. For what complication is this patient at risk?
A) Chronic jaundice
B) Pigment stones in portal circulation
C) Central nervous system damage
D) Hepatomegaly
Ans: C
Feedback:
Prolonged jaundice, even if mild, predisposes to the formation of pigment stones in the gallbladder, and
extremely severe jaundice (levels of free bilirubin exceeding 20 to 25 mg/dL) poses a risk for CNS
damage. There are not specific risks of hepatomegaly or chronic jaundice resulting from high bilirubin.
A patients abdominal ultrasound indicates cholelithiasis. When the nurse is reviewing the patients
laboratory studies, what finding is most closely associated with this diagnosis?
A) Increased bilirubin
B) Decreased serum cholesterol
C) Increased blood urea nitrogen (BUN)
D) Decreased serum alkaline phosphatase level
Ans: A
Feedback:
If the flow of blood is impeded, bilirubin, a pigment derived from the breakdown of red blood cells, does
not enter the intestines. As a result, bilirubin levels in the blood increase. Cholesterol, BUN, and alkaline
phosphatase levels are not typically affected.
A nurse is assessing a patient who has been diagnosed with cholecystitis and is experiencing localized abdominal pain.
When assessing the characteristics of the patient’s pain, the nurse should anticipate that it may radiate to what region?
A) Left upper chest
B) Inguinal region
C) Neck or jaw
D) Right shoulder
Ans: D
Feedback:
The patient may have biliary colic with excruciating upper right abdominal pain that radiates to the back or right shoulder.
Pain from cholecystitis does not typically radiate to the left upper chest, inguinal area, neck, or jaw.
A 55-year-old man has been newly diagnosed with acute pancreatitis and admitted to the acute medical unit. How should
the nurse most likely explain the pathophysiology of this patients health problem?
A) Toxins have accumulated and inflamed your pancreas.
B) Bacteria likely migrated from your intestines and became lodged in your pancreas.
C) A virus that was likely already present in your body has begun to attack your pancreatic cells.
D) The enzymes that your pancreas produces have damaged the pancreas itself.
Ans: D
Feedback:
Although the mechanisms causing pancreatitis are unknown, pancreatitis is commonly described as the
autodigestion of the pancreas. Less commonly, toxic substances and microorganisms are implicated as
the cause of pancreatitis.
A patient’s assessment and diagnostic testing are suggestive of acute pancreatitis. When the nurse is performing the health
interview, what assessment questions address likely etiologic factors? Select all that apply.
A) How many alcoholic drinks do you typically consume in a week?
B) Have you ever been tested for diabetes?
C) Have you ever been diagnosed with gallstones?
D) Would you say that you eat a particularly high-fat diet?
E) Does anyone in your family have cystic fibrosis?
Ans: A, C
Feedback:
Eighty percent of patients with acute pancreatitis have biliary tract disease such as gallstones or a history of long-term
alcohol abuse. Diabetes, high-fat consumption, and cystic fibrosis are not noted etiologic factors.
A patients abdominal ultrasound indicates cholelithiasis. When the nurse is reviewing the patients laboratory studies, what
finding is most closely associated with this diagnosis?
A) Increased bilirubin
B) Decreased serum cholesterol
C) Increased blood urea nitrogen (BUN)
D) Decreased serum alkaline phosphatase level
Ans: A
Feedback:
If the flow of blood is impeded, bilirubin, a pigment derived from the breakdown of red blood cells, does not enter the
intestines. As a result, bilirubin levels in the blood increase. Cholesterol, BUN, and alkaline phosphatase levels are not
typically affected.
A nurse who provides care in a walk-in clinic assesses a wide range of individuals. The nurse should
identify which of the following patients as having the highest risk for chronic pancreatitis?
A) A 45-year-old obese woman with a high-fat diet
B) An 18-year-old man who is a weekend binge drinker
C) A 39-year-old man with chronic alcoholism
D) A 51-year-old woman who smokes one-and-a-half packs of cigarettes per day
Ans: C
Feedback:
Excessive and prolonged consumption of alcohol accounts for approximately 70% to 80% of all cases of
chronic pancreatitis.
A 37-year-old male patient presents at the emergency department (ED) complaining of nausea and vomiting and severe
abdominal pain. The patients abdomen is rigid, and there is bruising to the patients flank. The patients wife states that he
was on a drinking binge for the past 2 days. The ED nurse should assist in assessing the patient for what health problem?
A) Severe pancreatitis with possible peritonitis
B) Acute cholecystitis
C) Chronic pancreatitis
D) Acute appendicitis with possible perforation
Ans: A
Feedback:
Severe abdominal pain is the major symptom of pancreatitis that causes the patient to seek medical care. Pain in
pancreatitis is accompanied by nausea and vomiting that does not relieve the pain or nausea. Abdominal guarding is
present and a rigid or board-like abdomen may be a sign of peritonitis. Ecchymosis (bruising) to the flank or around the
umbilicus may indicate severe peritonitis. Pain generally occurs 24 to 48 hours after a heavy meal or alcohol ingestion.
The link with alcohol intake makes pancreatitis a more likely possibility than appendicitis or cholecystitis.
A patient has been scheduled for an ultrasound of the gallbladder the following morning. What should
the nurse do in preparation for this diagnostic study?
A) Have the patient refrain from food and fluids after midnight.
B) Administer the contrast agent orally 10 to 12 hours before the study.
C) Administer the radioactive agent intravenously the evening before the study.
D) Encourage the intake of 64 ounces of water 8 hours before the study.
Ans: A
Feedback:
An ultrasound of the gallbladder is most accurate if the patient fasts overnight, so that the gallbladder is distended.
Contrast and radioactive agents are not used when performing ultrasonography of the gallbladder, as an ultrasound is
based on reflected sound waves.
A patient who had surgery for gallbladder disease has just returned to the postsurgical unit from postanesthetic recovery.
The nurse caring for this patient knows to immediately report what assessment finding to the physician?
A) Decreased breath sounds
B) Drainage of bile-colored fluid onto the abdominal dressing
C) Rigidity of the abdomen
D) Acute pain with movement
Ans: C
Feedback:
The location of the subcostal incision will likely cause the patient to take shallow breaths to prevent pain, which may
result in decreased breath sounds. The nurse should remind patients to take deep breaths and cough to expand the lungs
fully and prevent atelectasis. Acute pain is an expected assessment finding following surgery; analgesics should be
administered for pain relief. Abdominal splinting or application of an abdominal binder may assist in reducing the pain.
Bile may continue to drain from the drainage tract after surgery, which will require frequent changes of the abdominal
dressing. Increased abdominal tenderness and rigidity should be reported immediately to the physician, as it may indicate
bleeding from an inadvertent puncture or nicking of a major blood vessel during the surgical procedure.
A patient with chronic pancreatitis had a pancreatojejunostomy created 3 months ago for relief of pain and to restore
drainage of pancreatic secretions. The patient has come to the office for a routine postsurgical appointment. The patient is
frustrated that the pain has not decreased. What is the most appropriate initial response by the nurse?
A) The majority of patients who have a pancreatojejunostomy have their normal digestion restored but do not achieve
pain relief.
B) Pain relief occurs by 6 months in most patients who undergo this procedure, but some people experience a recurrence
of their pain.
C) Your physician will likely want to discuss the removal of your gallbladder to achieve pain relief.
D) You are probably not appropriately taking the medications for your pancreatitis and pain, so we will need to discuss
your medication regimen in detail.
Ans: B
Feedback:
Pain relief from a pancreatojejunostomy often occurs by 6 months in more than 85% of the patients who undergo this
procedure, but pain returns in a substantial number of patients as the disease progresses. This patient had surgery 3 months
ago; the patient has 3 months before optimal benefits of the procedure may be experienced. There is no obvious indication
for gallbladder removal and nonadherence is not the most likely factor underlying the pain.
A nurse is caring for a patient who has been scheduled for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) the
following day. When providing anticipatory guidance for this patient, the nurse should describe what aspect of this
diagnostic procedure?
A) The need to protect the incision post-procedure
B) The use of moderate sedation
C) The need to infuse 50% dextrose during the procedure
D) The use of general anesthesia
Ans: B
Feedback:
Moderate sedation, not general anesthesia, is used during ERCP. D50 is not administered and the procedure does not
involve the creation of an incision.
A patient has undergone a laparoscopic cholecystectomy and is being prepared for discharge home. When providing
health education, the nurse should prioritize which of the following topics?
A) Management of fluid balance in the home setting
B) The need for blood glucose monitoring for the next week
C) Signs and symptoms of intra-abdominal complications
D) Appropriate use of prescribed pancreatic enzymes
Ans: C
Feedback:
Because of the early discharge following laparoscopic cholecystectomy, the patient needs thorough education in the signs
and symptoms of complications. Fluid balance is not typically a problem in the recovery period after laparoscopic
cholecystectomy. There is no need for blood glucose monitoring or pancreatic enzymes.
A nurse is preparing a plan of care for a patient with pancreatic cysts that have necessitated drainage through the
abdominal wall. What nursing diagnosis should the nurse prioritize?
A) Disturbed Body Image
B) Impaired Skin Integrity
C) Nausea
D) Risk for Deficient Fluid Volume
Ans: B
Feedback:
While each of the diagnoses may be applicable to a patient with pancreatic drainage, the priority nursing diagnosis is
Impaired Skin Integrity. The drainage is often perfuse and destructive to tissue because of the enzyme contents. Nursing
measures must focus on steps to protect the skin near the drainage site from excoriation. The application of ointments or
the use of a suction apparatus protects the skin from excoriation.
A home health nurse is caring for a patient discharged home after pancreatic surgery. The nurse documents the nursing
diagnosis Risk for Imbalanced Nutrition: Less than Body Requirements on the care plan based on the potential
complications that may occur after surgery. What are the most likely complications for the patient who has had pancreatic
surgery?
A) Proteinuria and hyperkalemia
B) Hemorrhage and hypercalcemia
C) Weight loss and hypoglycemia
D) Malabsorption and hyperglycemia
Ans: D
Feedback:
The nurse arrives at this diagnosis based on the complications of malabsorption and hyperglycemia. These complications
often lead to the need for dietary modifications. Pancreatic enzyme replacement, a low-fat diet, and vitamin
supplementation often are also required to meet the patients’ nutritional needs and restrictions. Electrolyte imbalances
often accompany pancreatic disorders and surgery, but the electrolyte levels are more often deficient than excessive.
Hemorrhage is a complication related to surgery, but not specific to the nutritionally based nursing diagnosis. Weight loss
is a common complication, but hypoglycemia is less likely.
A patient has had a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The patient is now complaining of right shoulder pain. What should the
nurse suggest to relieve the pain?
A) Aspirin every 4 to 6 hours as ordered
B) Application of heat 15 to 20 minutes each hour
C) Application of an ice pack for no more than 15 minutes
D) Application of liniment rub to affected area
Ans: B
Feedback:
If pain occurs in the right shoulder or scapular area (from migration of the CO2 used to insufflate the abdominal cavity
during the procedure), the nurse may recommend use of a heating pad for 15 to 20 minutes hourly, walking, and sitting up
when in bed. Aspirin would constitute a risk for bleeding.
A patient returns to the floor after a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The nurse should assess the patient for signs and
symptoms of what serious potential complication of this surgery?
A) Diabetic coma
B) Decubitus ulcer
C) Wound evisceration
D) Bile duct injury
Ans: D
Feedback:
The most serious complication after laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a bile duct injury. Patients do not face a risk of
diabetic coma. A decubitus ulcer is unlikely because immobility is not expected. Evisceration is highly unlikely, due to
the laparoscopic approach.
A patient has been treated in the hospital for an episode of acute pancreatitis. The patient has acknowledged the role that
his alcohol use played in the development of his health problem but has not expressed specific plans for lifestyle changes
after discharge. What is the nurses most appropriate response?
A) Educate the patient about the link between alcohol use and pancreatitis.
B) Ensure that the patient knows the importance of attending follow-up appointments.
C) Refer the patient to social work or spiritual care.
D) Encourage the patient to connect with a community-based support group.
Ans: D
Feedback:
After the acute attack has subsided, some patients may be inclined to return to their previous drinking habits. The nurse
provides specific information about resources and support groups that may be of assistance in avoiding alcohol in the
future. Referral to Alcoholics Anonymous as appropriate or other support groups is essential. The patient already has an
understanding of the effects of alcohol, and follow-up appointments will not necessarily result in lifestyle changes. Social
work and spiritual care may or may not be beneficial.
A patient is being treated on the acute medical unit for acute pancreatitis. The nurse has identified a diagnosis of
Ineffective Breathing Pattern Related to Pain. What intervention should the nurse perform in order to best address this
diagnosis?
A) Position the patient supine to facilitate diaphragm movement.
B) Administer corticosteroids by nebulizer as ordered.
C) Perform oral suctioning as needed to remove secretions.
D) Maintain the patient in a semi-Fowlers position whenever possible.
Ans: D
Feedback:
The nurse maintains the patient in a semi-Fowlers position to decrease pressure on the diaphragm by a distended abdomen
and to increase respiratory expansion. A supine position will result in increased pressure on the diaphragm and potentially
decreased respiratory expansion. Steroids and oral suctioning are not indicated.
A patient with gallstones has been prescribed ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA). The nurse understands that additional
teaching is needed regarding this medication when the patient states:
A) It is important that I see my physician for scheduled follow-up appointments while taking this medication.
B) I will take this medication for 2 weeks and then gradually stop taking it.
C) If I lose weight, the dose of the medication may need to be changed.
D) This medication will help dissolve small gallstones made of cholesterol.
Ans: B
Feedback:
Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) has been used to dissolve small, radiolucent gallstones composed primarily of cholesterol.
This drug can reduce the size of existing stones, dissolve small stones, and prevent new stones from forming. Six to 12
months of therapy is required in many patients to dissolve stones and monitoring of the patient is required during this
time. The effective dose of medication depends on body weight.
A nurse is assisting with serving dinner trays on the unit. Upon receiving the dinner tray for a patient admitted with acute
gallbladder inflammation, the nurse will question which of the following foods on the tray?
A) Fried chicken
B) Mashed potatoes
C) Dinner roll
D) Tapioca pudding
Ans: A
Feedback:
The diet immediately after an episode of acute cholecystitis is initially limited to low-fat liquids. Cooked fruits, rice or
tapioca, lean meats, mashed potatoes, bread, and coffee or tea may be added as tolerated. The patient should avoid fried
foods such as fried chicken, as fatty foods may bring on an episode of cholecystitis.
A nurse is assessing an elderly patient with gallstones. The nurse is aware that the patient may not exhibit typical
symptoms, and that particular symptoms that may be exhibited in the elderly patient may include what?
A) Fever and pain
B) Chills and jaundice
C) Nausea and vomiting
D) Signs and symptoms of septic shock
Ans: D
Feedback:
The elderly patient may not exhibit the typical symptoms of fever, pain, chills jaundice, and nausea and vomiting.
Symptoms of biliary tract disease in the elderly may be accompanied or preceded by those of septic shock, which include
oliguria, hypotension, change in mental status, tachycardia, and tachypnea.
A nurse is creating a care plan for a patient with acute pancreatitis. The care plan includes reduced activity. What rationale
for this intervention should be cited in the care plan?
A) Bed rest reduces the patients metabolism and reduces the risk of metabolic acidosis.
B) Reduced activity protects the physical integrity of pancreatic cells.
C) Bed rest lowers the metabolic rate and reduces enzyme production.
D) Inactivity reduces caloric need and gastrointestinal motility.
Ans: C
Feedback:
The acutely ill patient is maintained on bed rest to decrease the metabolic rate and reduce the secretion of pancreatic and
gastric enzymes. Staying in bed does not release energy from the body to fight the disease.
The nurse is caring for a patient who has just returned from the ERCP removal of gallstones. The nurse should monitor
the patient for signs of what complications?
A) Pain and peritonitis
B) Bleeding and perforation
C) Acidosis and hypoglycemia
D) Gangrene of the gallbladder and hyperglycemia
Ans: B
Feedback:
Following ERCP removal of gallstones, the patient is observed closely for bleeding, perforation, and the development of
pancreatitis or sepsis. Blood sugar alterations, gangrene, peritonitis, and acidosis are less likely complications.
A patient with pancreatic cancer has been scheduled for a pancreaticoduodenectomy (Whipple procedure). During health
education, the patient should be informed that this procedure will involve the removal of which of the following? Select
all that apply.
A) Gallbladder
B) Part of the stomach
C) Duodenum
D) Part of the common bile duct
E) Part of the rectum
Ans: A, B, C, D
Feedback:
A pancreaticoduodenectomy (Whipple procedure or resection) is used for potentially resectable cancer of the head of the
pancreas (Fig. 50-7). This procedure involves removal of the gallbladder, a portion of the stomach, duodenum, proximal
jejunum, head of the pancreas, and distal common bile duct. The rectum is not affected.
An adult patient has been admitted to the medical unit for the treatment of acute pancreatitis. What nursing action should
be included in these patients plan of care?
A) Measure the patient’s abdominal girth daily.
B) Limit the use of opioid analgesics.
C) Monitor the patient for signs of dysphagia.
D) Encourage activity as tolerated.
Ans: A
Feedback:
Due to the risk of ascites, the nurse should monitor the patients abdominal girth. There is no specific need to avoid the use
of opioids or to monitor for dysphagia, and activity is usually limited.
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 nurses 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.
A student nurse is caring for a patient who has a diagnosis of acute pancreatitis and who is receiving parenteral nutrition.
The student should prioritize which of the following assessments?
A) Fluid output
B) Oral intake
C) Blood glucose levels
D) BUN and creatinine levels
Ans: C
Feedback:
In addition to administering enteral or parenteral nutrition, the nurse monitors serum glucose levels every 4 to 6 hours.
Output should be monitored but in most cases it is not more important than serum glucose levels. A patient on parenteral
nutrition would have no oral intake to monitor. Blood sugar levels are more likely to be unstable than indicators of renal
function.
A patient has a recent diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis and is undergoing diagnostic testing to determine pancreatic islet
cell function. The nurse should anticipate what diagnostic test?
A) Glucose tolerance test
B) ERCP
C) Pancreatic biopsy
D) Abdominal ultrasonography
Ans: A
Feedback:
A glucose tolerance test evaluates pancreatic islet cell function and provides necessary information for making decisions
about surgical resection of the pancreas. This specific clinical information is not provided by ERCP, biopsy, or ultrasound.
A patient has been admitted to the hospital for the treatment of chronic pancreatitis. The patient has been stabilized and
the nurse is now planning health promotion and educational interventions. Which of the following should the nurse
prioritize?
A) Educating the patient about expectations and care following surgery
B) Educating the patient about the management of blood glucose after discharge
C) Educating the patient about post-discharge lifestyle modifications
D) Educating the patient about the potential benefits of pancreatic transplantation
Ans: C
Feedback:
The patient’s lifestyle (especially regarding alcohol use) is a major determinant of the course of chronic pancreatitis. The
disease is not often managed by surgery and blood sugar monitoring is not necessarily indicated for every patient after
hospital treatment. Transplantation is not an option.
The family of a patient in the ICU diagnosed with acute pancreatitis asks the nurse why the patient has been moved to an
air bed. What would be the nurses best response?
A) Air beds allow the care team to reposition her more easily while she’s on bed rest.
B) Air beds are far more comfortable than regular beds and shell likely have to be on bed rest a long time.
C) The bed automatically moves, so she’s less likely to develop pressure sores while she’s in bed.
D) The bed automatically moves, so she is likely to have less pain.
Ans: C
Feedback:
It is important to turn the patient every 2 hours; use of specialty beds may be indicated to prevent skin breakdown. The
rationale for a specialty bed is not related to repositioning, comfort, or ease of movement.
A patient is receiving care in the intensive care unit for acute pancreatitis. The nurse is aware that pancreatic necrosis is a
major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with acute pancreatitis. Consequently, the nurse should assess for what
signs or symptoms of this complication?
A) Sudden increase in random blood glucose readings
B) Increased abdominal girth accompanied by decreased level of consciousness
C) Fever, increased heart rate and decreased blood pressure
D) Abdominal pain unresponsive to analgesics
Ans: C
Feedback:
Pancreatic necrosis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with acute pancreatitis because of resulting
hemorrhage, septic shock, and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS). Signs of shock would include hypotension,
tachycardia and fever. Each of the other listed changes in status warrants intervention, but none is clearly suggestive of an
onset of pancreatic necrosis.
A patient has been diagnosed with acute pancreatitis. The nurse is addressing the diagnosis of Acute Pain Related to
Pancreatitis. What pharmacologic intervention is most likely to be ordered for this patient?
A) Oral oxycodone
B) IV hydromorphone (Dilaudid)
C) IM meperidine (Demerol)
D) Oral naproxen (Aleve)
Ans: B
Feedback:
The pain of acute pancreatitis is often very severe and pain relief may require parenteral opioids such as morphine,
fentanyl (Sublimaze), or hydromorphone (Dilaudid). There is no clinical evidence to support the use of meperidine for
pain relief in pancreatitis. Opioids are preferred over NSAIDs.
A patient has just been diagnosed with chronic pancreatitis. The patient is underweight and in severe pain and diagnostic
testing indicates that over 80% of the patient’s pancreas has been destroyed. The patient asks the nurse why the diagnosis
was not made earlier in the disease process. What would be the nurse’s best response?
A) The symptoms of pancreatitis mimic those of much less serious illnesses.
B) Your body doesn’t require pancreatic function until it is under great stress, so it is easy to go unnoticed.
C) Chronic pancreatitis often goes undetected until a large majority of pancreatic function is lost.
D) It’s likely that your other organs were compensating for your decreased pancreatic function.
Ans: C
Feedback:
By the time symptoms occur in chronic pancreatitis, approximately 90% of normal acinar cell function (Exocrine
function) has been lost. Late detection is not usually attributable to the vagueness of symptoms. The pancreas contributes
continually to homeostasis and other organs are unable to perform its physiologic functions.
A patient has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and has been admitted for care. Following initial treatment, the nurse
should be aware that the patient is most likely to require which of the following?
A) Inpatient rehabilitation
B) Rehabilitation in the home setting
C) Intensive physical therapy
D) Hospice care
Ans: D
Feedback:
Pancreatic carcinoma has only a 5% survival rate at 5 years regardless of the stage of disease at diagnosis or treatment. As
a result, there is a higher likelihood that the patient will require hospice care than physical therapy and rehabilitation.
A patient is admitted to the ICU with acute pancreatitis. The patients family asks what causes acute pancreatitis. The
critical care nurse knows that a majority of patients with acute pancreatitis have what?
A) Type 1 diabetes
B) An impaired immune system
C) Undiagnosed chronic pancreatitis
D) An amylase deficiency
Ans: C
Feedback:
Eighty percent of patients with acute pancreatitis have biliary tract disease or a history of long-term alcohol abuse. These
patients usually have had undiagnosed chronic pancreatitis before their first episode of acute pancreatitis. Diabetes, an
impaired immune function, and amylase deficiency are not specific precursors to acute pancreatitis.
A patient is admitted to the unit with acute cholecystitis. The physician has noted that surgery will be scheduled in 4 days.
The patient asks why the surgery is being put off for a week when he has a sick gallbladder. What rationale would
underlie the nurse’s response?
A) Surgery is delayed until the patient can eat a regular diet without vomiting.
B) Surgery is delayed until the acute symptoms subside.
C) The patient requires aggressive nutritional support prior to surgery.
D) Time is needed to determine whether a laparoscopic procedure can be used.
Ans: B
Feedback:
Unless the patient’s condition deteriorates, surgical intervention is delayed just until the acute symptoms subside (usually
within a few days). There is no need to delay surgery pending an improvement in nutritional status and deciding on a
laparoscopic approach is not a lengthy process.
A patient with a cholelithiasis has been scheduled for a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Why is laparoscopic
cholecystectomy preferred by surgeons over an open procedure?
A) Laparoscopic cholecystectomy poses fewer surgical risks than an open procedure.
B) Laparoscopic cholecystectomy can be performed in a clinic setting, while an open procedure requires an OR.
C) A laparoscopic approach allows for the removal of the entire gallbladder.
D) A laparoscopic approach can be performed under conscious sedation.
Ans: A
Feedback:
Open surgery has largely been replaced by laparoscopic cholecystectomy (removal of the gallbladder through a small
incision through the umbilicus). As a result, surgical risks have decreased, along with the length of hospital stay and the
long recovery period required after standard surgical cholecystectomy. Both approaches allow for removal of the entire
gallbladder and must be performed under general anesthetic in an operating theater.
A patient with ongoing back pain, nausea, and abdominal bloating has been diagnosed with cholecystitis
secondary to gallstones. The nurse should anticipate that the patient will undergo what intervention?
A) Laparoscopic cholecystectomy
B) Methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) infusion
C) Intracorporeal lithotripsy
D) Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWL)
Ans: A
Feedback:
Most of the nonsurgical approaches, including lithotripsy and dissolution of gallstones, provide only temporary solutions
to gallstone problems and are infrequently used in the United States. Cholecystectomy is the preferred treatment.
A nurse is caring for a patient with gallstones who has been prescribed ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA).
The patient asks how this medicine is going to help his symptoms. The nurse should be aware of what
aspect of this drugs pharmacodynamics?
A) It inhibits the synthesis of bile.
B) It inhibits the synthesis and secretion of cholesterol.
C) It inhibits the secretion of bile.
D) It inhibits the synthesis and secretion of amylase.
Ans: B
Feedback:
UDCA acts by inhibiting the synthesis and secretion of cholesterol, thereby desaturating bile. UDCA
does not directly inhibit either the synthesis or secretion of bile or amylase.
A nurse is providing discharge education to a patient who has undergone a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. During the
immediate recovery period, the nurse should recommend what foods?
A) High-fiber foods
B) Low-purine, nutrient-dense foods
C) Low-fat foods high in proteins and carbohydrates
D) Foods that are low-residue and low in fat
Ans: C
Feedback:
The nurse encourages the patient to eat a diet that is low in fats and high in carbohydrates and proteins immediately after
surgery. There is no specific need to increase fiber or avoid purines. A low-residue diet is not indicated. 40. A patient
presents to the emergency department (ED) complaining of severe right upper quadrant pain. The patient states that his
family doctor told him he had gallstones. The ED nurse should recognize what possible complication of gallstones?
A) Acute pancreatitis
B) Atrophy of the gallbladder
C) Gallbladder cancer
D) Gangrene of the gallbladder
Ans: D
Feedback:
In calculous cholecystitis, a gallbladder stone obstructs bile outflow. Bile remaining in the gallbladder initiates a chemical
reaction; autolysis and edema occur; and the blood vessels in the gallbladder are compressed, compromising its vascular
supply. Gangrene of the gallbladder with perforation may result. Pancreatitis, atrophy, and cancer of the gallbladder are
not plausible complications.