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:

Rebound tenderness refers to increased pain upon release of pressure during palpation and is not related to the finding of a rigid, board-like abdomen.

Choice B reason:

Paralytic ileus refers to a condition in which the intestines stop functioning, causing a lack of bowel sounds and distension, but it is not directly related to the rigid abdomen finding.

Choice C reason:

Abdominal compartment syndrome may cause abdominal distension and increased intra-abdominal pressure, but it does not necessarily result in a rigid, board-like abdomen.

Choice D reason:

The finding of a rigid, board-like abdomen upon palpation is known as guarding, which is a protective response of the abdominal muscles in peritonitis to minimize movement and protect the inflamed peritoneum.

Choice A reason:

Bradycardia is not a common side effect of opioid use in clients with peritonitis.

Choice B reason:

Hypertension is not a common side effect of opioid use in clients with peritonitis.

Choice C reason:

Respiratory depression is a potential side effect of opioid use and is a significant concern in clients with peritonitis, as they may already have compromised respiratory function.

Choice D reason:

Diarrhea is not

a common side effect of opioid use in clients with peritonitis.