A nurse is caring for a patient with chronic pancreatitis who is experiencing significant weight loss and steatorrhea. What should the nurse prioritize in educating the patient?

Choice A reason: Vigorous exercise increases caloric expenditure, which would worsen the "significant weight loss" the patient is already experiencing. While light activity is healthy, a patient with malabsorption needs to focus on energy conservation and high-calorie intake rather than boosting their metabolism through intense physical exertion. Choice B reason: Reducing carbohydrates is not indicated for chronic pancreatitis unless the patient has concomitant diabetes. The primary issue in this condition is the malabsorption of fats and proteins due to the loss of exocrine enzymes. Restricting carbohydrates would unnecessarily limit the patient's much-needed calorie sources during a period of weight loss. Choice C reason: Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) is the cornerstone of treating steatorrhea and malabsorption. Telling a patient to avoid these supplements would lead to worsening nutritional deficiencies and abdominal distress. These enzymes must be taken with every meal and snack to facilitate the digestion of fats, proteins, and starches. Choice D reason: Patients with chronic pancreatitis struggle with fat digestion, which causes steatorrhea (fatty stools). A low-fat diet reduces these symptoms, while high-protein intake helps combat muscle wasting and weight loss. Consuming frequent small snacks ensures a steady intake of nutrients that are easier for the compromised pancreas to process with enzyme supplements.