A client with peritonitis is experiencing abdominal distension and decreased bowel sounds. The nurse suspects the presence of:
Paralytic ileus
Gastroenteritis
Appendicitis
Constipation
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
Abdominal distension and decreased bowel sounds are classic signs of paralytic ileus, a common complication of peritonitis.
Choice B reason:
Gastroenteritis is inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract and may cause diarrhea and abdominal pain but is not related to the specific symptoms described.
Choice C reason:
Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix and is not related to abdominal distension and decreased bowel sounds.
Choice D reason:
Constipation may cause abdominal distension, but decreased bowel sounds are not characteristic of constipation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
An electrocardiogram (ECG) is used to assess the electrical activity of the heart, not the abdomen.
Choice B reason:
An abdominal X-ray provides a basic overview of the abdomen but may not offer detailed images of the peritoneal organs and structures.
Choice C reason:
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can provide high-resolution images of the abdominal organs and structures, including the peritoneum, making it a valuable diagnostic tool for suspected peritonitis.
Choice D reason:
Ultrasonography can provide images of the abdominal organs, but it may not offer the level of detail provided by MRI in assessing peritonitis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
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.
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