While assessing a client's abdomen, the nurse observes sharp pains and involuntary reflex guarding on expiration. What complication does the nurse suspect based on these findings?
Malignancy
Aneurysm
Hernia
Peritonitis
The Correct Answer is D
A. Malignancy can cause abdominal pain, but it does not typically present with acute sharp pain and involuntary guarding.
B. Aneurysms, particularly abdominal aortic aneurysms, may present with a pulsatile mass and deep, dull pain rather than sharp pain and guarding.
C. Hernias can cause pain, but they typically present with a bulging mass that increases with straining, not sharp pain with reflex guarding.
D. Peritonitis is correct because it causes severe abdominal pain, involuntary guarding, and rebound tenderness due to inflammation of the peritoneum. Reflex guarding is a protective mechanism indicating peritoneal irritation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Oral mucosa is correct. Central cyanosis occurs when oxygen saturation is significantly reduced and is best assessed in areas with rich vascular supply, such as the oral mucosa, lips, and tongue.
B. Palms are incorrect because peripheral cyanosis (often due to cold exposure or poor circulation) can cause blue-tinged extremities, but this does not indicate central cyanosis.
C. Sclera is incorrect because cyanosis does not affect the sclera; however, jaundice does.
D. Nail beds are incorrect because, like the palms, they are more indicative of peripheral cyanosis, which can result from localized poor perfusion rather than central oxygenation problems.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Reassessing the blood pressure measurement is correct because the nurse should always verify abnormal findings before taking further action. The initial reading could be due to equipment error, improper cuff size, or patient positioning.
B. Notifying the provider is incorrect at this time because the nurse should first confirm the accuracy of the reading before escalating concerns.
C. Rechecking the BP in 30 minutes is incorrect because if the reading is accurate, waiting 30 minutes could delay necessary interventions.
D. Having the patient care tech take the BP again is incorrect because the nurse should personally validate the abnormal finding rather than delegating it.
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