Sucralfate reduces acid production in the stomach. A nursing student is caring for a patient who is taking sucralfate (Carafate) to treat peptic ulcer disease. The student asks the nurse about the pharmacokinetics of sucralfate. Which statement by the student indicates a need for further teaching?

Choice A reason:
Nasogastric suctioning is a common intervention in managing acute pancreatitis when there is severe nausea, vomiting, or evidence of intestinal obstruction. The procedure helps to decompress the stomach, reduce pancreatic stimulation, and minimize the risk of aspiration. It is particularly indicated for patients who cannot tolerate oral intake or exhibit signs of paralytic ileus. By reducing gastric distension and suppressing pancreatic secretions, nasogastric suctioning aids in alleviating symptoms and improving patient outcomes.
Choice B reason:
Narcotic analgesics are essential for controlling the intense abdominal pain that accompanies acute pancreatitis. The pain arises due to inflammation and autodigestion of pancreatic tissue by enzymes like trypsin. Medications such as morphine or hydromorphone provide effective relief by acting on opioid receptors in the central nervous system. Adequate pain management is crucial not only for patient comfort but also to mitigate stress-related complications that can worsen inflammation or systemic effects.
Choice C reason:
Steroid therapy is generally not part of the treatment for acute pancreatitis unless there is an associated autoimmune component. In most cases, the use of steroids could exacerbate the condition or increase the risk of complications such as infections. As such, this option is not appropriate in routine management of acute pancreatitis.
Choice D reason:
Restriction of food intake is a critical component of the treatment plan. Fasting minimizes pancreatic stimulation and allows the inflamed pancreas to rest. Typically, patients are kept nil by mouth (NPO) until their symptoms subside. Nutrition can then be gradually reintroduced, starting with clear liquids and advancing as tolerated. Enteral feeding via a nasojejunal tube may be considered if prolonged fasting is required.
Choice E reason:
IV fluids are a cornerstone of acute pancreatitis management. Fluid resuscitation is necessary to address hypovolemia caused by fluid shifts, vomiting, and third-spacing of fluids into inflamed tissues. Aggressive hydration with isotonic crystalloids, such as normal saline or lactated Ringer's solution, helps maintain hemodynamic stability and improves microcirculation in the pancreas, reducing the risk of complications such as necrosis or organ failure.

Choice A reason:
In patients with chronic renal failure, the kidneys cannot effectively excrete magnesium, leading to the risk of hypermagnesemia. Magnesium hydroxide, commonly used as an antacid and laxative, should be used with caution or avoided in these patients to prevent magnesium accumulation in the blood, which can have serious cardiovascular and neuromuscular effects.

Choice B reason:
While cirrhosis affects liver function and can alter drug metabolism, magnesium hydroxide does not have a direct contraindication for use in patients with cirrhosis. However, caution is necessary due to potential electrolyte imbalances and altered pharmacokinetics. The primary concern with magnesium hydroxide in these patients is less critical compared to those with renal failure.

Choice C reason:
Hemorrhoids do not directly contraindicate the use of magnesium hydroxide. This condition primarily affects the veins around the rectum and anus and is unrelated to the systemic effects of magnesium. Therefore, the presence of hemorrhoids does not necessitate withholding the medication.

Choice D reason:
Undiagnosed abdominal pain is a significant consideration before administering magnesium hydroxide. The use of laxatives can exacerbate conditions like intestinal obstruction or acute abdomen. Therefore, caution is advised, but the immediate and more critical concern remains the risk posed to patients with chronic renal failure.