A nurse is assessing a client suspected of having peritonitis. Which diagnostic test is most likely to be performed to confirm the diagnosis?

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

Complete blood count (CBC)

Chest X-ray

Abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

Choice A reason:

An electrocardiogram (ECG) is used to assess the electrical activity of the heart and is not specific to diagnosing peritonitis.

Choice B reason:

A complete blood count (CBC) may reveal elevated white blood cell count and inflammatory markers, but it alone cannot confirm the diagnosis of peritonitis.

Choice C reason:

A chest X-ray may be performed to rule out other conditions, but it is not the primary diagnostic test for peritonitis.

Choice D reason:

An abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan is a valuable diagnostic tool for identifying signs of inflammation and infection in the peritoneal cavity, aiding in the confirmation of peritonitis.

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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.

A. Hypothyroidism B. Chronic kidney disease C. Migraine headaches D. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Hypothyroidism is not a risk factor for peritonitis.

Choice B reason:

Chronic kidney disease can weaken the immune system and make the client more susceptible to infections such as peritonitis.

Choice C reason:

Migraine headaches are not a risk factor for peritonitis.

Choice D reason:

GERD is not a risk factor for peritonitis.

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A nurse is assessing a client suspected of having peritonitis. Which diagnostic test is most likely to be performed to confirm the diagnosis?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is assisting with a diagnostic paracentesis for a client with suspected peritonitis. The nurse understands that this procedure involves:

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse is caring for a client with peritonitis and is reviewing the client's medical history. Which condition places the client at an increased risk of developing peritonitis?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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