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A nurse is assessing a client with suspected peritonitis. Which symptom should the nurse expect the client to report?

Chest pain

Severe headache

Abdominal pain and tenderness

Shortness of breath

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A reason:

Chest pain is not a typical symptom of peritonitis, as the condition primarily affects the abdomen.

Choice B reason:

A severe headache is not a characteristic symptom of peritonitis.

Choice C reason:

Abdominal pain and tenderness are hallmark symptoms of peritonitis, resulting from inflammation of the peritoneum lining the abdominal cavity.

Choice D reason:

Shortness of breath is not a common symptom of peritonitis unless there is an associated respiratory complication.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Recent travel to a tropical region is not a risk factor for peritonitis.

Choice B reason:

A history of asthma is not a risk factor for peritonitis.

Choice C reason:

Prior abdominal surgery is a significant risk factor for peritonitis because it can lead to perforation of the gastrointestinal tract and the spread of bacteria into the peritoneal cavity.

Choice D reason:

A vegetarian diet is not a risk factor for peritonitis.

A. Hypovolemic shock B. Paralytic ileus C. Intestinal obstruction D. Urinary retention

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Hypovolemic shock involves severe blood loss or fluid depletion and may present with signs of hypotension and tachycardia but is not directly related to the findings described.

Choice B reason:

Paralytic ileus is a lack of bowel motility that causes abdominal distension and decreased bowel sounds, and it is a common complication of peritonitis.

Choice C reason:

Intestinal obstruction involves a blockage of the intestines and may present with abdominal distension and altered bowel sounds, but it is not directly related to peritonitis in this context.

Choice D reason:

Urinary retention involves the inability to empty the bladder fully and is not related to the findings described in the scenario.

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A nurse is assessing a client with suspected peritonitis. Which symptom should the nurse expect the client to report?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client is admitted to the hospital with peritonitis. The nurse is conducting an assessment and asks the client about their recent medical history. Which risk factor is most likely associated with the development of peritonitis in this client?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A client with peritonitis experiences abdominal distension and decreased bowel sounds on auscultation. The nurse recognizes these findings as suggestive of:

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A client presents to the emergency department with severe abdominal pain, tenderness, and fever. The client reports a recent history of ruptured appendix. The nurse suspects the client may be experiencing:

A nurse is caring for a client with peritonitis and observes a rigid, board-like abdomen upon palpation. The nurse recognizes this finding as:

A client with peritonitis is prescribed continuous gastric suction. The nurse understands that this intervention is essential to:

A client with peritonitis develops a wound infection at the surgical site. Which nursing intervention is essential in preventing the spread of infection?

A client with peritonitis develops hypotension and tachycardia. The nurse recognizes these signs as possible indications of which complication?

A client is recovering from peritonitis and is being discharged from the hospital. The nurse provides discharge instructions and emphasizes the importance of:

A client with peritonitis develops a high fever, chills, and profuse sweating. The nurse recognizes these signs as indicative of:

A client underwent abdominal surgery and is now at risk of developing peritonitis. The nurse teaches the client about the early signs and symptoms of peritonitis. What should the nurse include in the teaching?