When caring for a child with probable appendicitis, the nurse would be alert to recognize which condition or symptom is a sign of perforation?
Decreased abdominal distention
Anorexia
Bradycardia
Sudden relief from pain
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason:
Decreased abdominal distention is not typically a sign of appendicitis perforation. In fact, perforation often leads to increased abdominal distention due to the release of intestinal contents into the abdominal cavity, causing inflammation and swelling. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.
Choice B reason:
Anorexia, or loss of appetite, is a common symptom of appendicitis but not specifically indicative of perforation2. While anorexia can be present in cases of perforation, it is not a definitive sign. The sudden relief of pain is a more critical indicator of perforation, as it suggests the appendix has ruptured, temporarily relieving pressure.
Choice C reason:
Bradycardia, or a slow heart rate, is not a typical sign of appendicitis perforation. In fact, appendicitis and its complications, such as perforation, are more likely to cause tachycardia (an increased heart rate) due to pain and infection. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.
Choice D reason:
Sudden relief from pain is a classic sign of appendicitis perforation. When the appendix ruptures, the pressure inside the appendix is relieved, leading to a temporary decrease in pain. However, this is followed by a rapid onset of severe pain as the contents of the appendix spread throughout the abdominal cavity, causing peritonitis. This sudden change in pain is a critical indicator that the appendix has perforated and requires immediate medical attention.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is d) Central nervous system.
Choice A reason:
The musculoskeletal system is not primarily affected by abnormal phenylalanine levels. Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a metabolic disorder that primarily impacts the brain and cognitive functions. While muscle weakness can occur due to overall health deterioration, it is not the primary system affected by phenylalanine toxicity.
Choice B reason:
The renal system is not the main target of phenylalanine toxicity. Although the kidneys play a role in filtering blood and excreting waste, the toxic effects of phenylalanine accumulation are more pronounced in the brain. Therefore, the renal system is not the primary system affected by abnormal phenylalanine levels.
Choice C reason:
The GI system, or gastrointestinal system, is not the primary system affected by abnormal phenylalanine levels. While dietary management is crucial for individuals with PKU to control phenylalanine intake, the toxic effects are primarily seen in the brain. The GI system is involved in the absorption and digestion of nutrients, but it is not the main system impacted by phenylalanine toxicity.
Choice D reason:
The central nervous system (CNS) is the primary system affected by abnormal phenylalanine levels. Phenylketonuria (PKU) leads to the accumulation of phenylalanine in the brain, causing severe brain damage and cognitive impairments. High levels of phenylalanine can disrupt neurotransmitter synthesis and brain development, leading to intellectual disabilities and other neurological issues. Therefore, the CNS is the main system impacted by phenylalanine toxicity.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Weight gain is not a primary concern in the management of hypothyroidism in infancy. While hypothyroidism can lead to weight gain due to a slower metabolism, the more critical issue is the impact on brain development. Early and adequate treatment of hypothyroidism is essential to prevent intellectual disabilities and ensure normal neurocognitive outcomes.
Choice B Reason:
Rapid gut motility and diarrhea are not typical symptoms of hypothyroidism. In fact, hypothyroidism is more commonly associated with constipation due to a slower metabolism. Therefore, this choice is not relevant to the prompt management of hypothyroidism in infancy.
Choice C Reason:
Infancy is indeed a critical period for brain development. Untreated hypothyroidism during this time can lead to severe intellectual disabilities and developmental delays. Early diagnosis and treatment with thyroid hormone replacement are crucial to ensure normal brain development and cognitive function.
Choice D Reason:
Hyperactivity and irritability are not common symptoms of hypothyroidism. In fact, hypothyroidism often leads to lethargy and decreased activity levels. Therefore, this choice is not relevant to the prompt management of hypothyroidism in infancy.
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