A patient with acute pancreatitis arrives at the Emergency Department complaining of severe abdominal pain radiating to the back. Which nursing intervention should be prioritized?

Apply warm compresses to the abdomen to reduce pain.

Administer intravenous fluids to maintain hydration.

Administer anti-hypertensive medications to reduce pancreatic workload.

Encourage the patient to eat a light meal to relieve abdominal discomfort.