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:

An electrocardiogram (ECG) is used to assess the electrical activity of the heart, not the abdomen.

Choice B reason:

An abdominal X-ray provides a basic overview of the abdomen but may not offer detailed images of the peritoneal organs and structures.

Choice C reason:

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can provide high-resolution images of the abdominal organs and structures, including the peritoneum, making it a valuable diagnostic tool for suspected peritonitis.

Choice D reason:

Ultrasonography can provide images of the abdominal organs, but it may not offer the level of detail provided by MRI in assessing peritonitis.

A. Hypoglycemia B. Hyperthyroidism C. Sepsis D. Renal failure

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.

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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 suspected peritonitis is undergoing abdominal imaging. The nurse prepares the client for which diagnostic imaging modality that can provide detailed images of the peritoneal organs and structures?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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 client with peritonitis is experiencing abdominal distension and decreased bowel sounds. The nurse suspects the presence of:

A nurse is caring for a client with peritonitis and is reviewing the client's medical history. Which condition places the client at an increased risk of developing peritonitis?

A client with peritonitis develops acute kidney injury (AKI). Which nursing intervention is essential in the management of this complication?

A nurse is providing education to a group of clients about peritonitis and its risk factors. Which client is at the highest risk for developing peritonitis?

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 nurse is assessing a client with suspected peritonitis. Which clinical finding is a hallmark sign of this condition?

A nurse is caring for a client with peritonitis who developed sepsis. Which nursing intervention is the highest priority in managing this complication?

A client is diagnosed with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP). The nurse anticipates the need for which medical intervention?