A nurse is caring for a client with a recent perforated gastric ulcer. The nurse identifies that the client is at risk of developing peritonitis due to:

Choice A reason:

Referred pain is pain that is felt in a different location from its source, and it is not directly associated with the sharp, sudden-onset pain described by the client.

Choice B reason:

Visceral pain arises from the internal organs and is often described as sharp and colicky. It worsens with movement and is a characteristic feature of peritonitis.

Choice C reason:

Neuropathic pain is caused by nerve damage and is not typically associated with peritonitis.

Choice D reason:

Radiating pain is pain that extends from its source to other areas, and it is not specifically described in the scenario.

Choice A reason:

Increased blood pressure is not characteristic of septic shock. Septic shock is associated with low blood pressure.

Choice B reason:

Bradycardia is not a typical sign of septic shock. Tachycardia is more common in septic shock.

Choice C reason:

Warm, flushed skin is not typical in septic shock. Septic shock is associated with cold, clammy skin.

Choice D reason:

Rapid, shallow breathing is a common early sign of septic shock and indicates the body's attempt to compensate for the decreased cardiac output.