A client presents to the emergency department with severe right upper quadrant abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. The client states the pain radiates to the right shoulder. Which of the following conditions should the nurse suspect based on these clinical manifestations?

Choice A reason:

Dark urine and pale-colored stools are not typically associated with a gastrointestinal infection. These symptoms are more indicative of changes in bile flow or bilirubin excretion.

Choice B reason:

While cholecystitis can lead to malabsorption of nutrients, it is not the primary cause of changes in stool color to pale.

Choice C reason:

This statement is correct. Cholecystitis can obstruct the bile duct, leading to a decrease in bilirubin excretion. Bilirubin gives urine its characteristic color, and when excretion is reduced, the urine becomes darker (brownish). Likewise, the absence of bilirubin in the stool leads to pale-colored or clay-colored stools.

Choice D reason:

Dehydration may occur in some cases of cholecystitis, but it is not the primary cause of changes in urine and stool color.

Choice A reason:

Administering pain medication is important, but assessing the client's vital signs and pain level takes priority to determine the severity of the pain and the appropriate intervention.

Choice B reason:

This statement is correct. Assessing the client's vital signs and pain level is the first action the nurse should take to evaluate the client's condition and determine the appropriate intervention.

Choice C reason:

Placing the client in a semi-Fowler's position may provide some comfort, but it does not address the underlying pain or assist in determining the severity of the situation.

Choice D reason:

Offering herbal tea for relaxation is a non-pharmacological intervention that can be helpful, but it is not the first action the nurse should take when the client is experiencing severe abdominal pain.