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 B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Bradycardia is not a concerning finding in this context and may indicate a vagal response or be a side effect of certain medications.
Choice B reason:
Hypotension is a concerning finding and may indicate hypovolemic shock, a potentially life-threatening complication of peritonitis.
Choice C reason:
Hyperactive bowel sounds are not a concerning finding in this context and may be a sign of gastrointestinal motility.
Choice D reason:
Increased urine output may be a positive finding but does not directly relate to the development of hypovolemic shock.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
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.
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