Exhibits

Click to highlight the statement(s) made by the client that indicate she understood the treatment recommendations and is developing an understanding of her disease. Select all that apply.
1.    Working with an addiction therapist for several months will assist in my recovery.

2.    The Alcoholics Anonymous program would be a great resource, but they do not have meetings when I'm free.
3.    It is not safe for me to drink alcohol, but I am still able to smoke marijuana without problems.
4.    Identifying potential triggers allows me to proactively utilize coping strategies.

5.    Relapse is an expected complication of substance use; thus, prevention strategies and awareness of my emotions are important.
6.    The treatment options for alcoholism are limited to inpatients, with very few resources for outpatients.
 

A. While addressing anxiety is important, it is not the most immediate priority in the emergency setting where acute pain, potential infection, and fluid management take precedence.
B. Given the diagnosis of appendicitis, preventing infection is crucial. The client is at risk for developing an infection or sepsis if the appendix perforates, which could result in peritonitis.
C. The client is experiencing severe abdominal pain (pain rating of 9/10). Effective pain management is essential for the client’s comfort and stabilization.
D. This is more relevant post-surgery. In the emergency department, the focus should be on stabilizing the client and preparing her for surgery.
E. The client has regular bowel movements and this is not a priority in the context of acute appendicitis.
F. This is a consideration for longer-term inpatient care or post-surgery, not an immediate priority in the emergency setting.
G. The client is receiving a bolus of Lactated Ringer’s to manage her fluid volume.

Maintaining adequate hydration and correcting any potential dehydration or fluid imbalance is vital.
H. Educating the client about her diagnosis and the plan of care, including the upcoming surgery, helps reduce anxiety and ensures that she is informed about her treatment.

A. Tachycardia indicates the body is responding to pain, infection, or potential sepsis. It's a critical vital sign indicating the body's stress response.
B. Tachypnea can be a response to pain or anxiety but also indicates the need for careful monitoring of respiratory status, especially postoperatively.

C. A capillary refill of 2 seconds is within the normal range and indicates adequate peripheral perfusion.
D. Radial and pedal pulses 2+ are within the normal range and indicates adequate peripheral perfusion.
E. Severe abdominal pain in the right lower quadrant is a primary symptom of appendicitis, which is confirmed by the CT scan showing a dilated appendix and fat stranding. Immediate attention is needed to address potential complications such as rupture.
F. Feeling anxious needs to be managed to promote patient comfort. However, it doesn’t need to be managed immediately since it is not life-threatening.
G. Fever is a sign of infection or inflammation, common in appendicitis. Monitoring and managing fever is crucial in preventing further complications.
H. Bilious vomitus is a common finding in appendicitis and may indicate that the inflammation has progressed to a point where it is causing a blockage in the intestines. This obstruction can lead to increased pressure within the abdominal cavity and compromise blood flow, potentially resulting in a life-threatening situation.
I. A blood pressure of 115/76 mm Hg is within normal limits and indicates stable hemodynamics at this point.