Question

Enteral nutrition is preferred over parenteral nutrition when treating patients with severe, acute pancreatitis because

a. enteral nutrition is more expensive.
b. enteral nutrition can prevent pseudocysts from developing.
c. failure to use the gastrointestinal tract exacerbates the stress response.
d. it is not the preferred route of nutrition.

Answer 1

Enteral nutrition is preferred in cases of severe acute pancreatitis over parenteral nutrition due to the importance of maintaining gastrointestinal tract usage and integrity, reducing the stress response, and lowering infection risks associated with IV lines. It helps to keep the digestive system's natural function and minimizes complications.

Step-by-step explanation:

Enteral nutrition is preferred over parenteral nutrition when treating patients with severe, acute pancreatitis because failure to use the gastrointestinal tract exacerbates the stress response. Utilizing the gastrointestinal (GI) tract for nutrition supports its function and integrity, decreases the risk of infection from IV lines, and may preserve the mucosal barrier, thus reducing bacterial translocation from the gut. This approach aligns with the body's natural processing of nutrients and can help maintain the balance of digestive enzymes, preventing self-digestion which can be a risk factor in acute pancreatitis.