What assessment findings support the diagnosis of peritonitis?

Abdominal cramping

Profuse diarrhea

Hyperactive bowel sounds

A hard, rigid abdomen

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A.   Abdominal cramping can occur with various gastrointestinal conditions, including peritonitis. However, it is not specific to peritonitis and may also be present in conditions like gastroenteritis or bowel obstruction.
B.   Profuse diarrhea is typically associated with gastrointestinal infections or inflammatory bowel diseases rather than peritonitis. In fact, peritonitis often leads to reduced bowel activity, potentially resulting in constipation rather than diarrhea.
C.   Hyperactive bowel sounds can occur in early stages of peritonitis but are not a classic finding. In many cases of peritonitis, bowel sounds may be diminished or absent due to the body’s response to inflammation. While it might be observed in some instances, it is not characteristic of peritonitis.
D.   This is a classic and significant finding in peritonitis. A hard, rigid abdomen indicates muscle guarding, which is the body’s response to inflammation and irritation of the peritoneum. This rigidity is often referred to as "board-like" and is a key indicator of peritonitis.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. This option includes nausea, which may occur but is not a primary indication for surgery. Belching can happen with digestive issues but does not specifically relate to GERD or the need for Nissen Fundoplication. Weight gain is not directly associated with GERD symptoms and may occur post-surgery due to changes in diet or activity levels.
B. Esophageal reflux is a central symptom of GERD and a primary reason for considering Nissen Fundoplication. While flatulence can occur with various gastrointestinal issues, it is not a hallmark symptom of GERD. Chronic cough may result from acid reflux irritating the throat, but this option does not emphasize the most common and significant symptoms related to the surgery.
C. Epigastric pain may occur in GERD but is not a defining symptom prompting surgery. Hoarseness can result from acid reflux affecting the vocal cords, yet it is not a primary reason for Nissen Fundoplication. Diarrhea is not typically associated with GERD and does not connect to the reasons for the procedure.
D. Heartburn is the classic symptom that drives many patients to seek surgical intervention. Gastroesophageal reflux directly indicates the condition being treated, and chest pain can be a significant discomfort caused by acid reflux.

A. Decrease daily intake of sodium. B. Stay upright for a minimum of 1 hour after eating. C. Sleep with the head of the bed elevated. D. Maintain a high-fiber, low-fat diet. E. Avoid snacks between meals.

Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]

Explanation

A. While a lower sodium diet is generally beneficial for overall health, it is not specifically linked to managing GERD symptoms. This choice may be included in broader health advice but isn't a primary recommendation for GERD.
B. Staying upright helps prevent the backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus, reducing the risk of reflux. This advice helps the digestive process and minimizes symptoms.
C. This is highly recommended for individuals with GERD. Elevating the head of the bed can help prevent nighttime reflux by using gravity to keep stomach contents from rising into the esophagus during sleep. This practice is effective in managing symptoms.
D. A high-fiber diet can be beneficial for overall digestive health and may help with GERD symptoms. Low-fat diets are also recommended since high-fat foods can exacerbate reflux by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter. This is a good recommendation to include in the teaching plan.
E. This recommendation is not always necessary. While some individuals may find that large meals trigger their GERD symptoms, avoiding snacks isn't universally required. In fact, small, healthy snacks may be tolerated well and can prevent hunger-related reflux symptoms.

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What assessment findings support the diagnosis of peritonitis?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Which signs and symptoms would the nurse expect to find in the history of a patient that is going for a Nissen Fundoplication surgery?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

The nurse is teaching a client with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) about dietary and lifestyle modifications. Which of the following should the nurse include in the teaching plan?(Select All that Apply.)

Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]

Explanation

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