The nurse assesses a client admitted four hours ago with a diagnosis of diverticulitis. Which clinical manifestation must be reported immediately to the physician?
Temperature-101.2
Bowel sounds change from normoactive to absent
Left lower quadrant discomfort
WBC count is slightly elevated
The Correct Answer is B
B. Bowel sounds are typically present and indicate normal gastrointestinal motility. A change from normoactive (normal) to absent bowel sounds can indicate bowel obstruction, perforation, or peritonitis, which are serious complications of diverticulitis. This change warrants immediate reporting to the physician as it may indicate a worsening condition requiring urgent intervention.
A. A temperature of 101.2°F (38.4°C) is slightly elevated and may indicate the presence of infection, which is concerning in the context of diverticulitis. Fever is a common symptom of diverticulitis, but an elevated temperature may also suggest worsening infection or the development of complications such as abscess formation or perforation.
C. Left lower quadrant discomfort is a common symptom of diverticulitis due to inflammation in the sigmoid colon, where diverticula are most prevalent. While discomfort is expected in diverticulitis, the severity and persistence of pain should be assessed.
D. An elevated white blood cell (WBC) count is indicative of inflammation or infection and is commonly seen in diverticulitis. However, the significance of the elevation depends on the degree of increase and the presence of other clinical findings.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. Toxic megacolon is characterized by severe colonic dilation, leading to a significant increase in abdominal girth. As the colon becomes distended, it can cause visible abdominal swelling and bloating, which may be accompanied by tenderness upon palpation.
A. In the context of toxic megacolon, there may be a reduction or cessation of bowel movements due to colonic dilation and paralysis.
C. In toxic megacolon, bowel sounds may initially be hyperactive due to increased peristalsis as the colon attempts to overcome the obstruction. However, as the condition progresses, bowel sounds may diminish or become absent due to colonic dilation and paralysis.
D. While fever can be present in toxic megacolon due to the underlying inflammatory process, it is not universally seen in all cases.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
C. Dietary factors, such as high intake of certain foods (e.g., animal protein, sodium, oxalate-rich foods) and low intake of others (e.g., fluids, calcium), can influence the composition of urine and contribute to the formation of renal stones. For example, calcium oxalate stones can form when there is an imbalance of calcium and oxalate in the urine, while uric acid stones can form in individuals with high purine diets.
A. The frequency of renal stones can vary depending on factors such as climate, dietary habits, and genetic predisposition, but it is not specifically associated with the northern United States.
B. Dehydration and inadequate fluid intake can contribute to the formation of renal stones, particularly calcium-based stones. Insufficient fluid intake can lead to concentrated urine, which increases the risk of stone formation and not vice versa.
D. The risk of renal stones is equal in both men and women.
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