A nurse is caring for a school-age child who has appendicitis. For which of the following findings should the nurse monitor as a manifestation of a perforated appendix and report to the provider?
Elevated temperature
Lethargy
Decreased abdominal girth
Bradycardia
The Correct Answer is A
A nurse caring for a school-age child who has appendicitis should monitor for several manifestations of a perforated appendix and report to the provider. According to my sources, one of the major complications of appendicitis is the perforation of the appendix, which can lead to peritonitis, abscess formation, or portal pylephlebitis. Perforation generally occurs 24 hours after the onset of pain. Symptoms include a fever of 37.7⁰C or greater, a toxic appearance, and continued abdominal pain or tenderness.
B- Lethargy is not mentioned as a manifestation of a perforated appendix.
C- Decreased abdominal girth is not mentioned as a manifestation of a perforated appendix.
D- Bradycardia, which refers to a slower than normal heart rate, is also not mentioned as a manifestation of a perforated appendix.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Helping the client develop positive self-talk and challenging negative thoughts can be beneficial in managing depressive symptoms. Assisting the client in recognizing negative self-perceptions and replacing them with more positive and realistic thoughts can help improve mood and self-esteem.
Exercise has been shown to have mood-enhancing effects and can help alleviate symptoms of depression. However, exercise should be done earlier in the day rather than right before bedtime, as it can have stimulating effects that may interfere with sleep.
It is important to encourage the client to engage in activities and spend time with others. Isolation and spending excessive time alone can exacerbate depressive symptoms. However, it is also important to respect the client's need for privacy and personal space.
While diet does play a role in overall well-being, there is no specific evidence to support the use of low-protein snacks for the treatment of major depressive disorder. It is important to provide the client with a well-balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrients to support overall health.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Informed consent is a legal and ethical requirement for certain medical procedures. It involves providing the client with clear and comprehensive information about the procedure, including its risks, benefits, alternatives, and expected outcomes. The client must understand the information provided and voluntarily give their consent before the procedure can be performed.
Placement of a central venous catheter is an invasive procedure that carries risks and potential complications, making it necessary to obtain informed consent from the client.

Wound irrigation with an antibiotic solution is a standard nursing intervention for wound care and does not usually involve invasive procedures. Informed consent is not typically required for this procedure.
The administration of an iron injection using the Z-track technique is a standard nursing procedure. While it involves an injection, it is not typically considered an invasive procedure that would require informed consent.
Insertion of a nasogastric tube is a common procedure that involves passing a tube through the nose and into the stomach for various purposes, such as feeding, decompression, or medication administration. While it is an invasive procedure, it is often performed in emergency or critical care situations where the client's immediate well-being takes precedence. Informed consent may not be feasible or necessary in these situations, depending on the context and urgency.
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