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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:

Administering pain medication is important for the client's comfort, but it is not the highest priority in the management of peritonitis. Addressing the underlying infection with antibiotics takes precedence.

Choice B reason:

Monitoring vital signs is essential for assessing the client's condition, but initiating antibiotic therapy is more critical to address the underlying infection.

Choice C reason:

Initiating intravenous (IV) antibiotic therapy is the highest priority in the management of peritonitis. Prompt administration of antibiotics is essential to treat the bacterial infection and prevent its spread.

Choice D reason:

Encouraging deep breathing and coughing exercises is beneficial for preventing respiratory complications, but it is not the highest priority compared to addressing the infection with antibiotics.

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 nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with peritonitis. Which intervention is the highest priority in the management of this condition?

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 nurse caring for a client with peritonitis observes the client assuming a fetal position and exhibiting restlessness. The nurse interprets these behaviors as indicative of:

A nurse is caring for a client with peritonitis who developed sepsis. Which nursing intervention is the highest priority in managing this complication?

A nurse is caring for a client with peritonitis who is at risk of developing abdominal compartment syndrome. Which assessment finding should the nurse be most concerned about?

A nurse is preparing a care plan for a client with peritonitis. Which nursing intervention is essential to include in the plan to address potential complications of this condition?

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

A client with peritonitis develops acute kidney injury (AKI). Which nursing intervention is essential in the management of this complication?

A client with peritonitis is prescribed intravenous (IV) fluid resuscitation. The nurse understands that the primary goal of fluid resuscitation is to:

A nurse is providing education to a group of clients about peritonitis and its risk factors. Which client is at the highest risk for developing peritonitis?