A client with acute abdominal pain, persistent nausea, and projectile vomiting is admitted to the hospital for observation. Acetaminophen is administered as prescribed for an oral temperature of 103°F (39.4°C) and an IV infusion of normal saline is initiated at 250 ml/hour. Which assessment finding should the nurse report to the healthcare provider immediately?
Petechial haemorrhage under client's eyes.
Right lower abdomen rebound tenderness.
Severe headache with photosensitivity.
Dark green coloured emesis.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Petechial haemorrhage under the client's eyes can be a sign of various conditions, including increased intrathoracic pressure from vomiting. However, it is not the most urgent finding in this scenario. The nurse should focus on the finding that indicates a potential life-threatening condition.
Choice B reason: Right lower abdomen rebound tenderness is a sign of peritonitis, which can be caused by appendicitis or other serious abdominal conditions. This is an urgent finding that requires immediate medical attention, as it indicates inflammation of the peritoneum and potential risk of perforation or severe infection.
Choice C reason: Severe headache with photosensitivity can be associated with conditions such as meningitis or migraines. While concerning, it does not take precedence over the abdominal signs that indicate a potentially life-threatening condition like peritonitis.
Choice D reason: Dark green coloured emesis can be indicative of bile or upper gastrointestinal content, which might be seen in conditions such as intestinal obstruction or vomiting. However, it is not as urgent as the finding of rebound tenderness, which suggests an acute and severe abdominal condition that needs immediate intervention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Drinking regular colas can lead to fluctuations in blood glucose levels and is not an appropriate recommendation for managing nausea in a client with diabetes.
Choice B reason: Not injecting additional insulin until solid food can be tolerated is not advisable, as it may lead to hyperglycaemia or diabetic ketoacidosis. Insulin needs to be managed carefully even if the client is not eating.
Choice C reason: Going to the emergency room immediately may not be necessary if the client can manage their blood glucose levels at home with proper guidance.
Choice D reason: Monitoring blood glucose levels and drinking fluids as tolerated is the best initial advice. This helps prevent dehydration and maintain glucose control while dealing with the nausea. The client should also follow sick day management guidelines for diabetes and stay in touch with their healthcare provider.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Petechial haemorrhage under the client's eyes can be a sign of various conditions, including increased intrathoracic pressure from vomiting. However, it is not the most urgent finding in this scenario. The nurse should focus on the finding that indicates a potential life-threatening condition.
Choice B reason: Right lower abdomen rebound tenderness is a sign of peritonitis, which can be caused by appendicitis or other serious abdominal conditions. This is an urgent finding that requires immediate medical attention, as it indicates inflammation of the peritoneum and potential risk of perforation or severe infection.
Choice C reason: Severe headache with photosensitivity can be associated with conditions such as meningitis or migraines. While concerning, it does not take precedence over the abdominal signs that indicate a potentially life-threatening condition like peritonitis.
Choice D reason: Dark green coloured emesis can be indicative of bile or upper gastrointestinal content, which might be seen in conditions such as intestinal obstruction or vomiting. However, it is not as urgent as the finding of rebound tenderness, which suggests an acute and severe abdominal condition that needs immediate intervention.
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