What is the main goal of supportive care in patients with acute pancreatitis?

Supportive care in patients with acute pancreatitis primarily focuses on maintaining hydration and electrolyte balance. This is critical because acute pancreatitis can lead to a systemic inflammatory response, which may result in fluid shifts, dehydration, and imbalances in electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and calcium. Adequate hydration helps ensure proper organ perfusion and function, which is vital for the recovery of the patient.

Maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance also facilitates the body’s healing processes and can help prevent complications, such as renal failure or shock, which can arise from severe dehydration and electrolyte disturbances. Therefore, ensuring that the patient is properly hydrated and that their electrolyte levels are normalized is a cornerstone of managing acute pancreatitis.

While other aspects of care—such as controlling pain, assisting digestion, and promoting mobility—are important parts of the overall management of acute pancreatitis, they do not take precedence over the essential need for hydration and electrolyte balance in this context.