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

Answer and Explanation

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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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A) Correct. In the early stages of appendicitis, inflammation leads to irritation of the abdominal lining, resulting in symptoms like nausea and loss of appetite.

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

C) Incorrect. Fever and an elevated white blood cell count typically occur as the infection progresses, which is a later stage of appendicitis.

D) Incorrect. Severe, constant abdominal pain in the lower right quadrant is a classic symptom, but it tends to develop after the initial nausea and loss of appetite.

A. "Apply a heating pad to the incision site for 15 minutes every hour." B. "Take prescribed pain medication as directed by your healthcare provider." C. "Avoid pain medication to promote natural healing." D. "Engage in deep breathing exercises to distract from the pain."

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A) Incorrect. Applying a heating pad directly to the incision site can increase the risk of burns or other complications. It is not recommended for post-operative pain management.

B) Correct. Taking prescribed pain medication as directed by the healthcare provider is an essential component of post-operative pain management. This ensures adequate pain relief and promotes comfort during the recovery period.

C) Incorrect. Avoiding pain medication is not recommended, especially after surgery. Pain management is important for the client's comfort and well-being during the recovery process.

D) Incorrect. While deep breathing exercises can be helpful for relaxation, they are not a substitute for prescribed pain medication, particularly in the immediate post-operative period.

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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?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is discussing the progression of appendicitis with a group of students. What should the nurse emphasize as an early symptom related to the pathophysiology of this condition?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A client recovering from an appendectomy asks the nurse about pain management. What should the nurse instruct the client to do for effective pain relief?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A client is curious about how appendicitis develops. What should the nurse explain about the underlying process of appendicitis?

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