A nurse is providing education to a client prior to appendectomy surgery. What should the nurse include as an important post-operative instruction regarding diet?

A) Incorrect. Appendicitis is primarily caused by infection and subsequent inflammation, not an allergic reaction.

B) Correct. An infection can lead to the obstruction of the appendix, causing an increase in pressure within the appendix. This increased pressure leads to inflammation and the characteristic symptoms of appendicitis.

C) Incorrect. While infection can lead to inflammation and dilation of the appendix, the primary mechanism is obstruction due to the infection.

D) Incorrect. The infection itself does not directly damage the nerves in the appendix. The pain associated with appendicitis is a result of the inflammation and increased pressure.

A) Incorrect. Rebound tenderness in the lower right abdomen is a later sign of appendicitis and may not be present in the early stages.

B) Incorrect. Severe, sudden-onset abdominal pain in the upper abdomen is not a typical early symptom of appendicitis. The pain usually starts around the navel and then migrates to the lower right abdomen.

C) Incorrect. Diarrhea and frequent bowel movements are not typically associated with early-stage appendicitis.

D) Correct. Nausea and loss of appetite are common early symptoms of appendicitis. As inflammation progresses, other symptoms like abdominal pain and tenderness may develop.