A client with peritonitis develops hypotension and tachycardia. The nurse recognizes these signs as possible indications of which complication?
Abdominal compartment syndrome
Respiratory distress syndrome
Sepsis
Gastrointestinal bleeding
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason:
Abdominal compartment syndrome may present with abdominal distension and firmness but is not directly associated with hypotension and tachycardia.
Choice B reason:
Respiratory distress syndrome may manifest with respiratory symptoms such as dyspnea and decreased oxygen saturation but is not directly associated with hypotension and tachycardia.
Choice C reason:
Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory response to infection and can cause hypotension and tachycardia as part of its clinical presentation.
Choice D reason:
Gastrointestinal bleeding may present with symptoms such as melena or hematemesis but is not directly associated with hypotension and tachycardia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
An electrocardiogram (ECG) is used to assess the electrical activity of the heart and is not specific to diagnosing peritonitis.
Choice B reason:
A complete blood count (CBC) may reveal elevated white blood cell count and inflammatory markers, but it alone cannot confirm the diagnosis of peritonitis.
Choice C reason:
A chest X-ray may be performed to rule out other conditions, but it is not the primary diagnostic test for peritonitis.
Choice D reason:
An abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan is a valuable diagnostic tool for identifying signs of inflammation and infection in the peritoneal cavity, aiding in the confirmation of peritonitis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Removal of fluid from the pleural cavity would be a thoracentesis, not a paracentesis.
Choice B reason:
Removal of fluid from the pericardial sac would be a pericardiocentesis, not a paracentesis.
Choice C reason:
A diagnostic paracentesis involves removing fluid from the peritoneal cavity to analyze for signs of infection and inflammation, which is important in diagnosing peritonitis.
Choice D reason:
Removal of fluid from the spinal canal would be a lumbar puncture, not a paracentesis.
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