Question

A client with cancer of the pancreas has undergone a Whipple procedure. The nurse is aware that, during the Whipple procedure, the doctor will remove the: A. Head of the pancreas B. Proximal third section of the small intestines C. Stomach and duodenum D. Esophagus and jejunum

Short answer

Answer: A. Head of the pancreas

Step-by-step solution

Define the Whipple procedure.

The Whipple procedure is a complex surgery commonly used to treat cancer in the head of the pancreas. It involves the removal of multiple organs and tissues in the upper part of the abdomen.

Identify which organs are removed during the Whipple procedure.

During the Whipple procedure, several organs are removed or partially removed, including the head of the pancreas, the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine), a small part of the stomach (called the pylorus), the gallbladder, and bile duct.

Compare the choices with the organs removed during the Whipple procedure.

Analyzing each option with the information from Step 2: A. Head of the pancreas - correct, as it is removed during the Whipple procedure. B. Proximal third section of the small intestines - incorrect, as the duodenum (first part) is removed, not the proximal third section. C. Stomach and duodenum - partially correct, as a small part of the stomach (pylorus) is removed along with the duodenum. D. Esophagus and jejunum - incorrect, as the esophagus and jejunum are not removed during the Whipple procedure.

Identify the best answer.

Based on the analysis in Step 3, the most accurate choice is A. Head of the pancreas. Even though option C is partially correct, option A is more precise in describing the organs removed during the Whipple procedure.

Key concepts

Pancreatic Cancer Treatment

Pancreatic cancer is a serious and challenging condition to treat due to its aggressive nature and difficulties in early detection. One of the main treatments for cancer in the head of the pancreas is the Whipple procedure, which is a surgical intervention designed to remove the cancerous tumor. It usually involves the removal of the head of the pancreas, the duodenum, a portion of the stomach known as the pylorus, and other nearby tissues.

The Whipple procedure, also known as pancreaticoduodenectomy, aims to prevent the spread of cancer and, if performed early enough, may increase long-term survival rates. However, it's a complex and major surgery that carries significant risks, including complications such as infections, hemorrhage, and digestive issues. After the surgery, patients often require chemotherapy or radiation therapy to kill any remaining cancer cells.

Surgical Nursing Procedures

In the realm of surgical nursing, nurses play a critical role in the perioperative and postoperative periods of patient care. A Whipple procedure demands meticulous nursing attention due to its complexity. Before the surgery, nurses must ensure patients are properly prepared, which includes providing education about the procedure, managing anxiety, and verifying that all preoperative tests and measures are complete.

Postoperatively, nurses monitor for signs of complications such as infections, hemorrhage, and anastomotic leaks. Pain management, nutritional support, and promoting wound healing are also essential nursing duties. Collaborating with a multidisciplinary team, including surgeons, dietitians, and physiotherapists, to optimize patient recovery is a key aspect of surgical nursing care.

NCLEX-PN Exam Preparation

Preparing for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) is a detailed process that requires a deep understanding of various nursing concepts, including surgical nursing procedures. To effectively prepare for questions related to complex surgeries like the Whipple procedure, students should focus on understanding the surgery's purpose, the organs involved, surrounding anatomy, possible complications, and nursing care pre- and post-operation.

To reinforce learning, students should engage in active study methods such as practice questions, reviewing rationales for correct and incorrect answers, and participating in study groups or review courses. Becoming proficient in prioritization, management of care, and safety infection control is also crucial for NCLEX-PN success. Tangibly, this can include comprehending sterile techniques, recognizing signs of complications, and acquiring skill in patient education and advocacy.