Question

The nurse is giving instructions to the parents of a child who has cystic fibrosis. Which information should the nurse emphasize about the administration of pancreatic enzymes?

A
Crush the tablet and sprinkle on food three times a day
B
They are to be taken with every meal or snack Correct Answer (Blank)
C
Dispense once daily with breakfast
D
Administer each time a high-carbohydrate meal is eaten

Answer 1

The nurse should instruct the parents to ensure that the child takes pancreatic enzymes with every meal or snack to assist in the digestion of nutrients, as this is crucial for those with cystic fibrosis.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should emphasize that the pancreatic enzymes should be taken with every meal or snack. This is because the enzymes are necessary for the proper digestion of nutrients, especially since individuals with cystic fibrosis have a compromised ability to digest and absorb due to thick and sticky mucus that can block the release of these enzymes from the pancreas.

Pancreatic enzymes help in the digestion of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Particularly, pancreatic amylase is crucial for the chemical digestion of carbohydrates and becomes active in the presence of bicarbonate, which neutralizes the acidic chyme in the small intestine, creating an optimal environment for the enzyme's activity. The active forms of protein-digesting enzymes, once activated in the duodenum, prevent self-digestion of the pancreas, which can occur in conditions like pancreatitis.

Therefore, it's important for the patient to take these enzymes as prescribed to aid their digestion process and increase the efficacy of nutrient absorption from their diet.