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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

Answer and Explanation

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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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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.

A. Chest X-ray B. Electrocardiogram (ECG) C. Abdominal ultrasound D. Complete blood count (CBC)

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason:

A chest X-ray is not the primary diagnostic test for peritonitis.

Choice B reason:

An ECG is used to assess cardiac function and is not specific to peritonitis.

Choice C reason:

An abdominal ultrasound is commonly used to diagnose peritonitis and can help visualize inflammation or fluid in the peritoneal cavity.

Choice D reason:

A CBC may show elevated white blood cell count, which is an indication of infection, but it is not a confirmatory test for peritonitis.

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A nurse is assessing a client with suspected peritonitis. Which clinical finding is a hallmark sign of this condition?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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