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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E"]
Explanation
A. Chocolate can relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), allowing stomach acid to reflux into the esophagus and exacerbate symptoms. Therefore, it is advisable for clients with GERD to avoid chocolate.
B. Tomato-based products are acidic and can aggravate GERD symptoms. Tomatoes are naturally acidic, which can contribute to increased acidity in the stomach and exacerbate reflux symptoms.
C. Spicy and high-fat foods, such as hot and spicy pork rinds, can trigger GERD symptoms by increasing stomach acid production and relaxing the LES. Spicy foods can irritate the esophagus and exacerbate symptoms such as heartburn and reflux.
E. Oranges and other citrus fruits are acidic and can irritate the esophagus, exacerbating GERD symptoms. The acidity in oranges can increase stomach acid production and contribute to reflux.
D. Green beans are generally considered safe for individuals with GERD. They are low in fat and acidity, making them less likely to trigger reflux symptoms.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. Increase fiber in the diet: This is the correct option. Increasing dietary fiber intake is one of the most important interventions to prevent diverticular disease and reduce the risk of diverticulitis. Adequate fiber intake promotes regular bowel movements and prevents constipation, which can help reduce pressure in the colon and minimize the formation of diverticula.
A. Nuts and seeds are excellent sources of dietary fiber, which may actually help prevent diverticular disease. Therefore, while avoiding nuts and seeds may be advised during an acute diverticulitis flare-up to reduce irritation to the colon, it is not the most important long-term preventive intervention.
C. While stress management techniques may contribute to overall health and well-being, they are not the most important intervention specifically for preventing diverticular disease.
D. While physical activity and exercise are important for overall health and may help improve bowel function, there is limited evidence to suggest that strengthening abdominal muscles alone can prevent diverticular disease.
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