Has anyone provided bloodless care to patients with acute pancreatitis? Is there a role for epo/parenteral iron?
Appreciate any suggestions and comments.

Skenny,
There is a role for EPO & iron if the patient has blood loss from surgery & now is anemic. In some cases, a pancreatectomy may be necessary to relieve pain or surgery to remove gallstones that are blocking the drainage of pancreatic fluids has to be performed. Usually treatment consists of giving fluids & salts by IV to replace fluids lost through vomiting. Nothing is given by mouth, because stimulation of the digestive tract makes symptoms worsen. Pain relief by giving narcotic analgesaics. Is the patient actively bleeding? Is the patient anemic? What is the indication for dosing with EPO? Protocols are available for EPO & Iron dosing if the patient needs it.