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 C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Antibiotics are used to treat infections, including peritonitis, and do not increase the risk of developing peritonitis.
Choice B reason:
Antacids are used to neutralize stomach acid and do not increase the risk of peritonitis.
Choice C reason:
NSAIDs can cause gastrointestinal irritation and increase the risk of ulcers and perforation, which can lead to peritonitis.
Choice D reason:
Oral contraceptives do not increase the risk of developing peritonitis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Removal of fluid from the pleural cavity would be a thoracentesis, not a paracentesis.
Choice B reason:
Removal of fluid from the pericardial sac would be a pericardiocentesis, not a paracentesis.
Choice C reason:
A diagnostic paracentesis involves removing fluid from the peritoneal cavity to analyze for signs of infection and inflammation, which is important in diagnosing peritonitis.
Choice D reason:
Removal of fluid from the spinal canal would be a lumbar puncture, not a paracentesis.
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