The nurse assesses a young adult female who was brought to the emergency department (ED) by her boyfriend because she has not been feeling well all day and he believes she is getting worse. Which finding supports the nurse's suspicion that the client is experiencing appendicitis?
Sudden onset of severe anxiety, fear, and concern.
Periumbilical pain localizing to right lower quadrant.
Diffuse abdominal pain with elevated neutrophil count.
Anorexia progressing to nausea, vomiting, and fever.
The Correct Answer is B
A. While anxiety and fear can accompany many medical conditions, they are not typically associated with appendicitis. Appendicitis is characterized by physical symptoms like pain and digestive disturbances rather than emotional symptoms.
B. Periumbilical pain that shifts to the right lower quadrant is the classic presentation of appendicitis. As the inflammation progresses, pain tends to move from the mid-abdomen to the lower right abdomen, which supports a diagnosis of appendicitis.
C. Diffuse abdominal pain is less specific and could indicate a variety of conditions. While an elevated neutrophil count can suggest infection or inflammation, the localized pain seen in appendicitis is a more distinguishing feature.
D. These symptoms are also common in appendicitis, as it typically presents with loss of appetite, nausea, and fever. However, the hallmark symptom is localized pain, particularly in the right lower quadrant, making B a stronger indication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E","F","G"]
Explanation
A. Brudzinski reflexes test is primarily used to assess for meningeal irritation, which is not directly related to stroke.
B. Muscle tone assessments help to identify abnormalities in motor function, which could indicate neurological damage. Given the patient’s history and the recent fall, muscle tone should be checked for any signs of weakness or spasticity.
C. This test evaluates the client’s balance and proprioception. It is a quick way to check for potential issues with the nervous system, such as ataxia or other motor impairments, which could be present in a client with a stroke.
D. Assessing the level of consciousness is critical in a neurological assessment to ensure that the client is oriented and alert, which is especially important after a fall or stroke-like symptoms.
E. Pupillary response is an essential part of a neurological exam. Checking the size and reactivity of the pupils helps to assess brainstem function and overall neurological health.
F. Cranial nerve function should be assessed to evaluate for signs of neurological deficits. In stroke patients, cranial nerve impairments can provide important diagnostic information.
G. The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is a standard tool for assessing the level of consciousness and neurological status. It can provide valuable insights into the severity of a neurological condition, especially in post-fall or post-stroke patients.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. This tests the client’s ability to perform mathematical tasks but does not specifically assess abstract
thinking. It is more of a concrete cognitive task.
B. This question assesses abstract thinking because it requires the client to interpret a proverb, which involves understanding symbolic meaning beyond the literal words.
C. This question is assessing more of the client’s orientation and memory rather than abstract thinking. It does not test higher-level cognitive abilities.
D. This is an orientation question, assessing the client’s ability to recall personal facts, but it does not
assess abstract reasoning skills.
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