The nurse is monitoring a patient recovering from an emergency appendectomy.
Which finding is most concerning?

Choice A rationale
Diverticulitis is a condition that occurs when small pouches in the digestive tract become inflamed or infected. It typically causes severe, cramping pain that is constant and usually located in the lower left side of the abdomen.
Choice B rationale
While diarrhea can occur with diverticulitis, it is not the primary symptom used to describe the pain associated with this condition.
Choice C rationale
Sudden onset of pain is not typically associated with diverticulitis. The pain from diverticulitis is usually constant and located in the lower left side of the abdomen.
Choice D rationale
Pain located in the right lower quadrant is more commonly associated with conditions such as appendicitis, not diverticulitis.

Choice A rationale
Absence of bowel sounds can be a normal finding post-operatively and is not necessarily a cause for concern.
Choice B rationale
A small amount of bloody drainage on the dressing is not uncommon after surgery and is not typically a cause for concern.
Choice C rationale
A rigid abdomen on palpation is a concerning finding after an appendectomy. It could indicate peritonitis, a serious infection of the abdominal cavity that can occur if the appendix burst before or during surgery.
Choice D rationale
Pain at the operative site is expected after an appendectomy. However, severe or increasing pain could indicate a complication and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.