Question

The nurse performs a home care visit for a young adult diagnosed with cystic fibrosis. The nurse intervenes is which finding is discussed?

a. The young adult eats a high-protein, high-calorie diet
b. the young adult has two to three regular stools per day
c. The young adult swallows the medication capsules whole
d. The young adult takes pancreatic enzymes one hour after eating

Answer 1

The nurse should intervene in the management of cystic fibrosis based on the finding that the young adult takes pancreatic enzymes one hour after eating, as enzymes should be taken with meals for proper digestion.

Step-by-step explanation:

Understanding Cystic Fibrosis Management

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic, noninfectious disease characterized by the production of thick and sticky mucus that can clog respiratory and digestive organs. This condition leads to recurrent lung infections and malabsorption of nutrients. Management of CF focuses on optimizing nutrient intake and ensuring that medications are taken to aid digestion and prevent infections.

In the scenario described in the question, the intervention required would be related to the timing of pancreatic enzymes intake. Essential to the management of CF is the timely ingestion of pancreatic enzymes.

Correct timing would generally be with meals or snacks, not one hour after eating. This is because pancreatic enzymes are necessary for the proper digestion of foods, and their effectiveness is closely tied to the presence of food in the intestines. Delaying enzyme intake post meal could result in suboptimal digestion and absorption of nutrients, thus, the nurse should intervene based on the finding that the young adult takes pancreatic enzymes one hour after eating.