A client with peritonitis develops an elevated white blood cell count. The nurse recognizes this laboratory finding as indicative of:

Choice A reason:

Administering pain medication is important for the client's comfort, but it is not the highest priority in managing sepsis, a life-threatening complication of peritonitis. Addressing the underlying infection with antibiotics takes precedence.

Choice B reason:

Monitoring vital signs is essential for assessing the client's condition, but initiating broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy is more critical in managing sepsis.

Choice C reason:

Initiating broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy is the highest priority in managing sepsis. Prompt administration of antibiotics is crucial to treat the bacterial infection and prevent its spread.

Choice D reason:

Providing deep breathing exercises is important for preventing respiratory complications, but it is not the highest priority compared to addressing sepsis with antibiotics.

Choice A reason:

Chest pain is not a typical symptom of peritonitis, as the condition primarily affects the abdomen.

Choice B reason:

A severe headache is not a characteristic symptom of peritonitis.

Choice C reason:

Abdominal pain and tenderness are hallmark symptoms of peritonitis, resulting from inflammation of the peritoneum lining the abdominal cavity.

Choice D reason:

Shortness of breath is not a common symptom of peritonitis unless there is an associated respiratory complication.