A client with peritonitis presents with an elevated temperature, rapid heart rate, and shallow breathing. The nurse recognizes these signs as indicative of:

Choice A reason:

Having a history of allergies is not a risk factor for peritonitis.

Choice B reason:

Having a history of diabetes is not a risk factor for peritonitis.

Choice C reason:

Having a history of hypertension is not a risk factor for peritonitis.

Choice D reason:

A history of inflammatory bowel disease is a significant risk factor for peritonitis, especially if there are complications such as bowel perforation.

Choice A reason:

Changing the IV site every 24 hours is not necessary for IV antibiotic administration unless there is an indication of infiltration or infection at the site.

Choice B reason:

Administering the antibiotics using an infusion pump is essential to ensure accurate and controlled delivery of the medication, particularly when the client's condition requires a precise dosing schedule.

Choice C reason:

Discontinuing the antibiotics after 48 hours of improvement may lead to a recurrence of the infection. Clients with peritonitis often require a full course of antibiotic therapy to ensure complete eradication of the infection.

Choice D reason:

Administering the antibiotics through a peripheral IV catheter may not be suitable for the client's condition, as peritonitis may necessitate the use of a central line for administration of IV medications.