A client is admitted to the hospital after vomiting bright red blood and is diagnosed with a bleeding duodenal ulcer. The client develops a sudden, sharp pain in the mid epigastric region along with a rigid, board-like abdomen. These clinical manifestations are most likely indicative of which of the following?
The esophagus has become inflamed
An intestinal obstruction has developed
Additional ulcers have developed
The ulcer has perforated
The Correct Answer is D
A. Inflammation of the esophagus (esophagitis) may cause symptoms like heartburn or dysphagia, but it would not explain the sudden, sharp pain or rigid abdomen seen with a perforated ulcer.
B. An intestinal obstruction can cause abdominal pain and distension, but the rigid, board-like abdomen is more characteristic of peritonitis from a perforated ulcer, not an obstruction.
C. Additional ulcers could cause pain and bleeding, but they would not explain the sudden, sharp pain and rigid abdomen that typically result from perforation.
D. The sudden onset of sharp, severe pain in the mid epigastric area, along with a rigid, board-like abdomen, are hallmark signs of a perforated ulcer, which causes peritonitis. This is a medical emergency, as the perforation allows gastric contents to leak into the peritoneal cavity, leading to widespread infection.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"D","dropdown-group-2":"A"}
Explanation
Rationale:
Hypoxia: The client's decreased oxygen saturation (SaO2) despite oxygen therapy and the presence of respiratory distress (tachypnea, shortness of breath) indicate hypoxia.
Pneumonia: The client's fever, increased respiratory rate, decreased oxygen saturation, and crackles in the lungs are indicative of pneumonia, particularly in the right lower lobe as evidenced by the chest X-ray.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
A. Maintaining a healthy weight is important in managing a hiatal hernia. Excess weight can increase abdominal pressure, which may worsen symptoms of acid reflux.
B. Sleeping with the head of the bed elevated helps prevent acid reflux and symptoms of heartburn associated with a hiatal hernia. Elevation reduces the risk of stomach contents moving into the esophagus during sleep.
C. Drinking less fluid is not a necessary dietary change for hiatal hernia management. However, clients should avoid consuming large amounts of fluid with meals, as this may exacerbate reflux symptoms.
D. Consuming less caffeine and fewer spicy foods is appropriate because both can irritate the esophagus and increase acid reflux. Caffeine and spicy foods are known to trigger symptoms in individuals with a hiatal hernia.
E. Lying down for one-half hour after meals is not recommended for clients with a hiatal hernia, as it can worsen symptoms of reflux. The client should be advised to wait at least 2–3 hours before lying down after eating.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
