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

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Anxiety may lead to restlessness, but the assumption of a fetal position suggests a pain response, which is a common finding in peritonitis.

Choice B reason:

Fatigue may lead to restlessness, but it does not explain the assumption of a fetal position, which is a pain-coping mechanism.

Choice C reason:

The client assuming a fetal position and exhibiting restlessness are indicative of pain, which is a common symptom in peritonitis.

Choice D reason:

Respiratory distress is not directly related to the findings described in the scenario.

A. Hypovolemic shock B. Paralytic ileus C. Intestinal obstruction D. Urinary retention

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Hypovolemic shock involves severe blood loss or fluid depletion and may present with signs of hypotension and tachycardia but is not directly related to the findings described.

Choice B reason:

Paralytic ileus is a lack of bowel motility that causes abdominal distension and decreased bowel sounds, and it is a common complication of peritonitis.

Choice C reason:

Intestinal obstruction involves a blockage of the intestines and may present with abdominal distension and altered bowel sounds, but it is not directly related to peritonitis in this context.

Choice D reason:

Urinary retention involves the inability to empty the bladder fully and is not related to the findings described in the scenario.

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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:

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse caring for a client with peritonitis observes the client assuming a fetal position and exhibiting restlessness. The nurse interprets these behaviors as indicative of:

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A client with peritonitis experiences abdominal distension and decreased bowel sounds on auscultation. The nurse recognizes these findings as suggestive of:

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A nurse is caring for a client with peritonitis and is reviewing the client's medical history. Which condition places the client at an increased risk of developing peritonitis?

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:

A nurse is assessing a client with suspected peritonitis. Which symptom should the nurse expect the client to report?

A client with peritonitis is prescribed intravenous (IV) antibiotics. The nurse ensures to:

A client with peritonitis is experiencing acute respiratory distress. Which intervention is the nurse's priority in managing this complication?

A client with peritonitis is prescribed intravenous (IV) opioids for pain management. The nurse closely monitors the client for which potential side effect?

A nurse is caring for a client with peritonitis and observes a rigid, board-like abdomen upon palpation. The nurse recognizes this finding as:

A nurse is caring for a client with a recent perforated gastric ulcer. The nurse identifies that the client is at risk of developing peritonitis due to: