A client with peritonitis is prescribed a nasogastric (NG) tube for decompression. The nurse understands that the primary purpose of the NG tube is to:

Prevent aspiration pneumonia

Relieve abdominal distension

Monitor gastric pH levels

Administer enteral nutrition

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice A reason:

Preventing aspiration pneumonia is one of the benefits of an NG tube, but the primary purpose in peritonitis is to relieve abdominal distension caused by fluid and gas accumulation.

Choice B reason:

Relieving abdominal distension is the primary purpose of an NG tube in clients with peritonitis, as it helps remove fluid and gas from the stomach and intestines, reducing pressure on the peritoneum.

Choice C reason:

Monitoring gastric pH levels may be done with an NG tube in certain situations, but it is not the primary purpose in the context of peritonitis.

Choice D reason:

Administering enteral nutrition may be a secondary purpose of an NG tube in some cases, but it is not the primary goal in clients with peritonitis.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Referred pain is pain that is felt in a different location from its source, and it is not directly associated with the sharp, sudden-onset pain described by the client.

Choice B reason:

Visceral pain arises from the internal organs and is often described as sharp and colicky. It worsens with movement and is a characteristic feature of peritonitis.

Choice C reason:

Neuropathic pain is caused by nerve damage and is not typically associated with peritonitis.

Choice D reason:

Radiating pain is pain that extends from its source to other areas, and it is not specifically described in the scenario.

A. Increased urine output B. Abdominal distension and firmness C. Normal respiratory rate D. Mild incisional pain

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Increased urine output is not a concerning finding in this context and may indicate adequate fluid resuscitation.

Choice B reason:

Abdominal distension and firmness are concerning findings and may indicate the development of abdominal compartment syndrome, a serious complication of peritonitis.

Choice C reason:

Normal respiratory rate is a positive finding, but it does not directly relate to the development of abdominal compartment syndrome.

Choice D reason:

Mild incisional pain is expected after surgery, but it does not indicate the development of abdominal compartment syndrome.

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A client with peritonitis is prescribed a nasogastric (NG) tube for decompression. The nurse understands that the primary purpose of the NG tube is to:

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client with peritonitis reports experiencing sharp, sudden-onset pain that worsens with movement. The nurse recognizes this type of pain as:

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A nurse is caring for a client with peritonitis who is at risk of developing abdominal compartment syndrome. Which assessment finding should the nurse be most concerned about?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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

A client is admitted to the hospital with peritonitis. The nurse is conducting an assessment and asks the client about their recent medical history. Which risk factor is most likely associated with the development of peritonitis in this client?

A client with peritonitis develops a wound infection at the surgical site. Which nursing intervention is essential in preventing the spread of infection?

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

A client is diagnosed with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP). The nurse anticipates the need for which medical intervention?

A client with peritonitis develops a high fever, chills, and profuse sweating. The nurse recognizes these signs as indicative of:

A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client suspected of having peritonitis. Which finding is most indicative of this condition?

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