A 20-year-old diagnosed with appendicitis is being assessed by the nurse. Which statement by the client will make the nurse intervene immediately?
I have no appetite.
The pain hurts so much it is making me nauseous.
When I position myself on my right side, it makes the pain worse.
The pain seems to be gone now.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Loss of appetite is a common symptom of appendicitis due to the inflammation and irritation of the gastrointestinal tract. This symptom alone does not indicate an immediate need for intervention.
Choice B rationale
Nausea and vomiting are also common symptoms of appendicitis. The pain and inflammation can stimulate the vomiting center in the brain, leading to nausea. This symptom, while uncomfortable, does not require immediate intervention.
Choice C rationale
Pain that worsens with movement, such as positioning on the right side, is typical of appendicitis. This is due to the irritation of the peritoneum and the inflamed appendix. This symptom is expected and does not require immediate intervention.
Choice D rationale
The sudden disappearance of pain in a patient with appendicitis can indicate a rupture of the appendix. This is a medical emergency as it can lead to peritonitis, a severe and potentially life- threatening infection of the abdominal cavity. Immediate intervention is required to prevent complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Pancreatic pseudocyst is a complication of acute pancreatitis, but it is not directly associated with Cullen’s sign. Cullen’s sign indicates periumbilical ecchymosis, which is a sign of internal bleeding.
Choice B rationale
Electrolyte imbalance can occur in acute pancreatitis, but it is not indicated by Cullen’s sign. Cullen’s sign specifically points to internal bleeding.
Choice C rationale
Internal bleeding is the correct answer. Cullen’s sign is a bluish discoloration around the umbilicus, indicating bleeding within the abdomen. This can occur in severe cases of acute pancreatitis due to hemorrhage.
Choice D rationale
Pleural effusion can be a complication of acute pancreatitis, but it is not indicated by Cullen’s sign. Cullen’s sign is specific to internal bleeding.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Irregular pulse. While an irregular pulse is a common finding in atrial fibrillation, it is not the most critical finding to report immediately unless it is associated with other symptoms.
Choice B rationale
Persistent fatigue. Persistent fatigue is a common symptom in heart failure and atrial fibrillation but does not require immediate reporting unless it worsens significantly.
Choice C rationale
Dependent edema. Dependent edema is a common symptom in heart failure but does not require immediate reporting unless it is severe or worsening rapidly.
Choice D rationale
Slurred speech. This finding is critical to report immediately as it may indicate a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) due to an embolus from atrial fibrillation. Prompt intervention is necessary to prevent further complications. .
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