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A client with a history of appendectomy develops peritonitis. The nurse anticipates which diagnostic test to confirm the diagnosis?

Chest X-ray

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

Abdominal ultrasound

Complete blood count (CBC)

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A reason:

A chest X-ray is not the primary diagnostic test for peritonitis.

Choice B reason:

An ECG is used to assess cardiac function and is not specific to peritonitis.

Choice C reason:

An abdominal ultrasound is commonly used to diagnose peritonitis and can help visualize inflammation or fluid in the peritoneal cavity.

Choice D reason:

A CBC may show elevated white blood cell count, which is an indication of infection, but it is not a confirmatory test for peritonitis.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Hypoglycemia refers to low blood sugar levels and is not directly related to the signs described in the scenario.

Choice B reason:

Hyperthyroidism involves an overactive thyroid gland and may cause symptoms such as weight loss and heat intolerance but is not associated with the signs described.

Choice C reason:

The client's high fever, chills, and profuse sweating are suggestive of sepsis, a severe systemic infection often resulting from peritonitis.

Choice D reason:

Renal failure involves impaired kidney function and may present with specific signs, but it is not directly related to the signs described in the scenario.

A. Anemia B. Infection C. Hypoalbuminemia D. Dehydration

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Anemia refers to a low red blood cell count or hemoglobin level and is not directly related to an elevated white blood cell count.

Choice B reason:

An elevated white blood cell count is a common indicator of infection, such as in peritonitis, as the body's immune response is heightened to combat the inflammation and infection.

Choice C reason:

Hypoalbuminemia refers to low albumin levels in the blood and is not directly related to an elevated white blood cell count.

Choice D reason:

Dehydration may result in elevated blood cell counts due to hemoconcentration, but it is not the primary cause of an elevated white blood cell count in peritonitis.

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A client with a history of appendectomy develops peritonitis. The nurse anticipates which diagnostic test to confirm the diagnosis?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client with peritonitis develops a high fever, chills, and profuse sweating. The nurse recognizes these signs as indicative of:

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A client with peritonitis develops an elevated white blood cell count. The nurse recognizes this laboratory finding as indicative of:

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A client with peritonitis is receiving intravenous (IV) antibiotics. The nurse should monitor the client for which potential side effect of antibiotic therapy?

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