A client with peritonitis is experiencing severe abdominal pain. The nurse assesses the client's abdomen and notes that it appears bloated and distended. The nurse recognizes this as a potential sign of:
Ascites
Intestinal obstruction
Appendicitis
Pancreatitis
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason:
Ascites refers to the accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity and does not necessarily cause bloating and distension of the abdomen in the context of peritonitis.
Choice B reason:
Intestinal obstruction can occur in peritonitis when inflammation or infection causes the intestines to become blocked, leading to bloating and distension of the abdomen.
Choice C reason:
Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix and may cause pain, but it is not associated with generalized bloating and distension of the abdomen.
Choice D reason:
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas and may cause abdominal pain, but it is not associated with generalized bloating and distension of the abdomen.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to the development of gastric ulcers but is not directly related to an increased risk of peritonitis in clients with perforated gastric ulcers.
Choice B reason:
A sedentary lifestyle is not directly related to an increased risk of peritonitis in clients with perforated gastric ulcers.
Choice C reason:
Gastric acid hypersecretion can contribute to the formation of gastric ulcers and increase the risk of perforation, which can lead to peritonitis.
Choice D reason:
Frequent use of antacids may alleviate symptoms of gastric ulcers but is not directly related to an increased risk of peritonitis in clients with perforated gastric ulcers.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
A chest X-ray is not the primary diagnostic test for peritonitis.
Choice B reason:
An ECG is used to assess cardiac function and is not specific to peritonitis.
Choice C reason:
An abdominal ultrasound is commonly used to diagnose peritonitis and can help visualize inflammation or fluid in the peritoneal cavity.
Choice D reason:
A CBC may show elevated white blood cell count, which is an indication of infection, but it is not a confirmatory test for peritonitis.
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