A nurse is collecting data from a client who has peritonitis. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Choice A Reason:
Polyuria is incorrect. Peritonitis doesn’t directly influence urine output. Polyuria (increased urine production) is more commonly associated with conditions affecting the kidneys or diabetes mellitus rather than peritonitis.
Choice B Reason:
Peripheral edema is incorrect. Peritonitis typically involves abdominal symptoms and signs rather than peripheral issues like edema. Edema can be related to heart, kidney, or circulatory system problems, but it's not a typical manifestation of peritonitis.
Choice C Reason:
Decreased respirations is incorrect. Peritonitis can cause pain and discomfort, which might affect the depth of breathing or result in shallow breathing due to guarding against abdominal pain. However, decreased respirations as a specific finding wouldn't commonly be expected in peritonitis. Pain might cause shallow breathing, but it wouldn't lead to a consistent decrease in respiratory rate.
Choice D Reason:
Absent bowel sounds is correct. Peritonitis is an inflammation of the peritoneum, the lining of the abdominal cavity. This condition often leads to the loss or significant reduction of bowel sounds due to the irritation and inflammation of the abdominal structures.

Choice A Reason:

Instructing the client to tilt their head back to facilitate swallowing is not appropriate. Tilting the head back can increase the risk of aspiration (food or liquid entering the airway) for individuals with dysphagia. Instead, the client should maintain an upright position while eating.

Choice B Reason:

Encouraging the client to use a straw is inappropriate. Using a straw might increase the risk of aspiration because it can bypass the control mechanisms involved in safe swallowing, especially for someone with swallowing difficulties.

Choice C Reason:

Providing oral care before meals is correct. Providing oral care before meals helps to ensure that the client's mouth is clean, reducing the risk of infections and improving taste perception, which can enhance the client's willingness and ability to eat.

Choice D Reason:

Schedule physical therapy directly before meals is incorrect. Scheduling physical therapy directly before meals might tire the client and impact their ability to eat. Fatigue can negatively affect swallowing ability, so it's generally better to allow some rest or recovery time before meals.