A nurse is teaching a group of students about the clinical presentation of appendicitis. What should the nurse emphasize as a hallmark symptom that often occurs in the later stages of appendicitis?
Rebound tenderness in the lower right abdomen
Severe, constant abdominal pain in the lower right quadrant
Low-grade fever and elevated white blood cell count
Diarrhea and frequent bowel movements
The Correct Answer is A
A) Correct. Rebound tenderness in the lower right abdomen is a hallmark symptom that often occurs in the later stages of appendicitis. It indicates peritoneal irritation and is a sign of potential appendix perforation.
B) Incorrect. While severe, constant abdominal pain in the lower right quadrant is a characteristic symptom of appendicitis, it may occur in both early and later stages.
C) Incorrect. A low-grade fever and elevated white blood cell count are indicative of an inflammatory response and may occur in the later stages of appendicitis, but they are not as specific as rebound tenderness.
D) Incorrect. Diarrhea and frequent bowel movements are not typically associated with appendicitis. Constipation is a more common gastrointestinal symptom in this condition.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Incorrect. A urine test does not directly identify the presence of bacteria in the appendix. It assesses components of urine, not the contents of the appendix.
B) Incorrect. While a urine test can provide information about kidney function and fluid balance, it is not specifically related to the evaluation of appendicitis.
C) Correct. A urine test is relevant in the evaluation of appendicitis because it can help rule out urinary tract infection (UTI) as the cause of abdominal pain. UTI symptoms can sometimes mimic those of appendicitis.
D) Incorrect. A urine test does not directly visualize the appendix. It assesses components of urine, not the anatomy of the abdominal organs.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Incorrect. While ultrasound can be used in the evaluation of appendicitis, it is not considered the most definitive test. It may be less accurate in certain cases, such as in individuals with obesity.
B) Correct. A CT scan is considered the most definitive test for diagnosing appendicitis. It provides detailed images of the appendix and surrounding structures, allowing for accurate assessment.
C) Incorrect. Blood tests for infection markers, such as white blood cell count and C-reactive protein, can support the diagnosis of appendicitis, but they are not as definitive as a CT scan.
D) Incorrect. Abdominal X-rays are not typically used as a primary diagnostic tool for appendicitis. They may be performed to rule out other conditions, but they do not provide detailed information about the appendix itself.
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