A nurse is assessing a client with suspected peritonitis. Which clinical finding is a hallmark sign of this condition?
Severe headache and neck stiffness
Rapid and shallow breathing
Abdominal rigidity and tenderness
Hyperactive bowel sounds
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason:
Severe headache and neck stiffness are signs of meningitis and are not directly related to peritonitis.
Choice B reason:
Rapid and shallow breathing may occur with other respiratory conditions but is not a hallmark sign of peritonitis.
Choice C reason:
Abdominal rigidity and tenderness are hallmark signs of peritonitis and are caused by the inflammation of the peritoneum.
Choice D reason:
Hyperactive bowel sounds may occur with gastrointestinal disorders but are not specific to peritonitis.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Abdominal compartment syndrome may present with abdominal distension and firmness but is not directly associated with hypotension and tachycardia.
Choice B reason:
Respiratory distress syndrome may manifest with respiratory symptoms such as dyspnea and decreased oxygen saturation but is not directly associated with hypotension and tachycardia.
Choice C reason:
Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory response to infection and can cause hypotension and tachycardia as part of its clinical presentation.
Choice D reason:
Gastrointestinal bleeding may present with symptoms such as melena or hematemesis but is not directly associated with hypotension and tachycardia.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Hypothermia refers to abnormally low body temperature and is not associated with the clinical presentation of peritonitis.
Choice B reason:
Hypertension refers to high blood pressure and is not directly associated with the signs of peritonitis.
Choice C reason:
Hyperventilation involves rapid breathing but may not always be present in peritonitis.
Choice D reason:
The client's elevated temperature, rapid heart rate, and shallow breathing are indicative of a systemic inflammatory response, which is a characteristic feature of peritonitis.
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