The nurse is reviewing the prescription for a client admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of acute pancreatitis. Which interventions would the nurse anticipate for the client? Select all that apply.

Acute pancreatitis is an inflammatory condition of the pancreas often triggered by gallstones, alcohol use, or metabolic disturbances, leading to autodigestion of pancreatic tissue by activated enzymes. This results in severe epigastric pain, systemic inflammation, and potential metabolic complications such as hyperglycemia. Management focuses on resting the pancreas, controlling pain, preventing complications, and maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance. Nursing care is largely supportive and requires close monitoring for systemic effects. A. Maintaining the client in a supine, flat position is not recommended because it can worsen abdominal pain and discomfort. Patients with acute pancreatitis often experience pain relief when positioned in a semi-Fowler’s position or with knees flexed, which reduces tension on the abdomen. Flat positioning does not promote comfort or reduce pancreatic stimulation. B. Maintaining nothing by mouth (NPO) status is essential to rest the pancreas and reduce stimulation of digestive enzyme secretion. Oral intake triggers pancreatic enzyme release, which can worsen inflammation and autodigestion. NPO status is a key initial intervention until inflammation subsides and symptoms improve. C. Monitoring blood glucose levels is important because pancreatic inflammation can impair insulin production and lead to hyperglycemia. Damage to islet cells disrupts glucose regulation, increasing the risk of metabolic instability. Frequent monitoring allows early detection and management of abnormal blood glucose levels. D. Giving intravenous medication for pain is a priority because acute pancreatitis is associated with severe abdominal pain requiring opioid analgesia. Morphine sulfate or similar agents may be used to control pain and reduce sympathetic stress response. IV administration ensures rapid onset and effective pain relief during acute episodes. E. Encouraging coughing and deep breathing is necessary to prevent pulmonary complications such as atelectasis. Severe abdominal pain can limit deep breathing, increasing the risk of hypoventilation and lung collapse. Incentive breathing exercises help maintain lung expansion and reduce postoperative or immobility-related respiratory complications. F. Giving small, frequent high-calorie meals is inappropriate during the acute phase because the pancreas must be rested. Nutritional intake by mouth stimulates pancreatic enzyme secretion and can worsen inflammation. This approach may be considered later during recovery, but it is contraindicated in the acute stage of pancreatitis.