A client admitted with acute diverticulitis has experienced a sudden increase in temperature and reports a sudden onset of extreme abdominal tenderness. The nurse's rapid assessment reveals that the client's abdomen is uncharacteristically rigid on palpation. What is the nurse's best response?
Call the primary provider and report that the client may be obstructed.
Position the client supine and insert an NG tube.
Administer a fleet enema as prescribed and remain with the client.
Contact the primary provider promptly and report these signs of perforation.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: This is not the best response because it does not accurately describe the client's condition. Obstruction is a possible complication of diverticulitis, but it is not indicated by fever and abdominal rigidity. Obstruction is more likely to cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal distension.
Choice B reason: This is not the best response because it can worsen the client's condition. Positioning the client supine and inserting an NG tube are interventions for gastric outlet obstruction, not diverticulitis. An NG tube can increase the risk of infection and perforation in the inflamed colon. Supine position can also increase the pressure on the abdomen and cause more pain and discomfort.
Choice C reason: This is not the best response because it can be harmful to the client. Administering a fleet enema is contraindicated for diverticulitis, as it can cause more inflammation, bleeding, or perforation in the colon. A fleet enema is a type of laxative that contains sodium phosphate and is used to relieve constipation or prepare for colonoscopy.
Choice D reason: This is the best response because it is the most appropriate and urgent action for the client. Contacting the primary provider promptly and reporting these signs of perforation is essential for the client's safety and treatment. Perforation is a life-threatening complication of diverticulitis, where the colon wall ruptures and causes peritonitis, which is inflammation of the abdominal cavity. Perforation can cause symptoms such as fever, abdominal rigidity, tenderness, and rebound pain. Perforation requires immediate surgical intervention and antibiotic therapy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: This statement is not the best response for the nurse to give. The surgeon will not encourage the client to limit their fat intake after an appendectomy, as this has nothing to do with the appendix. The appendix is a small pouch attached to the beginning of the large intestine, not the small intestine where most of the fat digestion and absorption occurs.
Choice B reason: This statement is not the best response for the nurse to give. The appendix does play a role in the immune system and the gut microbiome, as it contains lymphoid tissue and beneficial bacteria. The client may notice some changes in their immunity or digestion after an appendectomy, especially if they have an infection or take antibiotics.
Choice C reason: This statement is not the best response for the nurse to give. The appendix does not affect the absorption of nutrients from the food the client eats, as it is not involved in the digestive process. The appendix is located at the end of the small intestine, where most of the nutrients have already been absorbed.
Choice D reason: This statement is the best response for the nurse to give. The appendix is not essential for survival, and the small intestine can adapt to its removal over time. The client may experience some temporary symptoms such as diarrhea, bloating, or gas after an appendectomy, but these usually resolve within a few weeks. The nurse should reassure the client that they can live a normal and healthy life without an appendix.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is not a correct finding for hypervolemia. Hypotension is a low blood pressure, which can be caused by hypovolemia (low blood volume) or other factors. Hypervolemia is an excess of fluid in the body, which can increase the blood pressure.
Choice B reason: This is not a correct finding for hypervolemia. Bradycardia is a slow heart rate, which can be caused by heart block, medication, or other factors. Hypervolemia can cause tachycardia (fast heart rate) as the heart tries to pump the excess fluid.
Choice C reason: This is a correct finding for hypervolemia. Peripheral edema is a swelling of the extremities due to fluid accumulation in the tissues. Hypervolemia can cause peripheral edema as the fluid leaks from the blood vessels into the interstitial spaces.
Choice D reason: This is not a correct finding for hypervolemia. Weight loss is a decrease in body weight, which can be caused by dehydration, malnutrition, or other factors. Hypervolemia can cause weight gain as the body retains more fluid.
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