A client with peritonitis is experiencing severe abdominal pain. The nurse assesses the client's abdomen and notes that it appears bloated and distended. The nurse recognizes this as a potential sign of:
Ascites
Intestinal obstruction
Appendicitis
Pancreatitis
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason:
Ascites refers to the accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity and does not necessarily cause bloating and distension of the abdomen in the context of peritonitis.
Choice B reason:
Intestinal obstruction can occur in peritonitis when inflammation or infection causes the intestines to become blocked, leading to bloating and distension of the abdomen.
Choice C reason:
Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix and may cause pain, but it is not associated with generalized bloating and distension of the abdomen.
Choice D reason:
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas and may cause abdominal pain, but it is not associated with generalized bloating and distension of the abdomen.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Fever and diarrhea are not specific early signs of peritonitis.
Choice B reason:
Abdominal distension and flatulence may occur for various reasons after abdominal surgery, but they are not specific to peritonitis.
Choice C reason:
Nausea and vomiting can be caused by various post-operative factors and are not specific to peritonitis.
Choice D reason:
Sudden-onset severe abdominal pain and tenderness are classic early signs of peritonitis and indicate the need for immediate medical attention.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Slower metabolism is a normal age-related change but is not directly related to an increased susceptibility to peritonitis in older adults.
Choice B reason:
Older adults may have decreased immune function, which can increase their susceptibility to infections, including peritonitis.
Choice C reason:
Increased bone density is not directly related to an increased susceptibility to peritonitis in older adults.
Choice D reason:
Reduced gastrointestinal motility is a normal age-related change but is not directly related to an increased susceptibility to peritonitis in older adults.
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