A therapeutic effect of pancreatin in a client with postgastrectomy syndrome is indicated by what finding?

The therapeutic effect of pancreatin in a client with postgastrectomy syndrome is indicated by the finding that the stool is less fatty and decreases in frequency. Pancreatin is a combination of digestive enzymes that helps in the breakdown of nutrients in individuals who have insufficient pancreatic enzyme production, which can occur after surgeries such as gastrectomy.

In postgastrectomy syndrome, patients may experience malabsorption due to changes in their digestive system, leading to steatorrhea, which is characterized by fatty stools. When pancreatin is taken, it aids in the proper digestion of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, resulting in improved fat absorption. As a result, the stools become less oily and reduce in frequency, indicating effective digestion and absorption, which is a key therapeutic goal.

The other options—improved appetite, weight loss, and controlled vitamin B12 deficiency—might indicate different clinical scenarios or responses to treatment but are not direct indicators of the enzymatic action of pancreatin on fat absorption and stool consistency. Each of these elements could be influenced by various factors and may not specifically reflect the effectiveness of pancreatin as clearly as changes in stool characteristics do.