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

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Hypoglycemia refers to low blood sugar levels and is not directly related to the signs described in the scenario.

Choice B reason:

Hyperthyroidism involves an overactive thyroid gland and may cause symptoms such as weight loss and heat intolerance but is not associated with the signs described.

Choice C reason:

The client's high fever, chills, and profuse sweating are suggestive of sepsis, a severe systemic infection often resulting from peritonitis.

Choice D reason:

Renal failure involves impaired kidney function and may present with specific signs, but it is not directly related to the signs described in the scenario.

A. Increased urine output B. Abdominal distension and firmness C. Normal respiratory rate D. Mild incisional pain

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Increased urine output is not a concerning finding in this context and may indicate adequate fluid resuscitation.

Choice B reason:

Abdominal distension and firmness are concerning findings and may indicate the development of abdominal compartment syndrome, a serious complication of peritonitis.

Choice C reason:

Normal respiratory rate is a positive finding, but it does not directly relate to the development of abdominal compartment syndrome.

Choice D reason:

Mild incisional pain is expected after surgery, but it does not indicate the development of abdominal compartment syndrome.

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

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse is caring for a client with peritonitis who is at risk of developing abdominal compartment syndrome. Which assessment finding should the nurse be most concerned about?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A client with peritonitis is prescribed intravenous (IV) antibiotics. The nurse ensures to:

A client with peritonitis is experiencing acute respiratory distress. Which intervention is the nurse's priority in managing this complication?

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A nurse is providing care to a client with peritonitis and is reviewing the client's medication history. Which medication places the client at an increased risk of developing peritonitis?

A client with peritonitis develops an elevated white blood cell count. The nurse recognizes this laboratory finding as indicative of:

A client with peritonitis presents with an elevated temperature, rapid heart rate, and shallow breathing. The nurse recognizes these signs as indicative of:

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