A nurse is caring for a client with peritonitis and observes a rigid, board-like abdomen upon palpation. The nurse recognizes this finding as:
Rebound tenderness
Paralytic ileus
Abdominal compartment syndrome
Guarding
The Correct Answer is D
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Hypothermia refers to abnormally low body temperature and is not associated with the clinical presentation of peritonitis.
Choice B reason:
Hypertension refers to high blood pressure and is not directly associated with the signs of peritonitis.
Choice C reason:
Hyperventilation involves rapid breathing but may not always be present in peritonitis.
Choice D reason:
The client's elevated temperature, rapid heart rate, and shallow breathing are indicative of a systemic inflammatory response, which is a characteristic feature of peritonitis.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
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.
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