A nurse in an emergency department is assisting a provider who is assessing a client who has suspected appendicitis. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Positive leukocyte esterase

Increased pain upon release of abdominal palpation

WBC 9,500 mm3

Pain from flexion of the left thigh when lying on the right side

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A. Positive leukocyte esterase is a laboratory finding typically identified during a urinalysis to screen for the presence of white blood cells. While this may indicate a urinary tract infection or renal calculi, it is not a diagnostic marker for an inflamed appendix. In appendicitis, the primary biochemical changes are systemic rather than localized to the urinary excretion system. The nurse would not expect this specific finding to confirm a diagnosis of appendiceal inflammation.

B. Increased pain upon the sudden release of deep abdominal palpation is known as rebound tenderness or Blumberg sign. This clinical phenomenon occurs when the parietal peritoneum is irritated due to the inflammatory process of the adjacent appendix. It is one of the most reliable physical examination findings for identifying peritoneal irritation associated with acute appendicitis. The nurse should expect this reaction during the provider's assessment of the right lower quadrant.

C. A white blood cell (WBC) count of 9,500 mm3 falls within the standard physiological reference range for a healthy adult. In a client with acute appendicitis, the nurse would instead expect to see significant leukocytosis, typically exceeding 10,000 to 18,000 mm3. This elevation in the leukocyte count reflects the body's systemic inflammatory response to the localized infection. A normal count like 9,500 mm3 would be atypical for a client with an actively inflamed appendix.

D. Pain from flexion of the left thigh while lying on the right side is not a characteristic sign of appendicitis. The psoas sign, which is associated with appendicitis, involves pain upon extension or flexion of the right thigh, as the appendix sits in the right iliac fossa. Flexing the left thigh does not cause the anatomical tension required to irritate an inflamed appendix. This finding would suggest a different pathology or involve an unaffected anatomical region.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) Provide instruction on pelvic muscle exercises:
Pelvic muscle exercises are beneficial for urinary incontinence but are not a standard intervention for treating pyelonephritis. Pyelonephritis focuses on managing infection and inflammation of the kidneys rather than strengthening pelvic muscles.

B) Administer skeletal muscle relaxants every 6 hr:
Skeletal muscle relaxants are not typically used in the treatment of pyelonephritis. The focus should be on antibiotics to treat the infection and analgesics for pain relief, rather than muscle relaxants.

C) Encourage fluid intake:
Increasing fluid intake helps flush bacteria from the urinary tract, which can aid in reducing the infection and promoting kidney health. Proper hydration is crucial for clients with pyelonephritis to help manage symptoms and prevent further complications.

D) Monitor vital signs every 8 hr:
While monitoring vital signs is important, it should be done more frequently than every 8 hours, especially in the acute phase of pyelonephritis, to promptly identify any signs of worsening infection or sepsis.

A. Position the cast on a plastic-covered pillow. B. Perform neurovascular checks every 2 hr. C. Instruct the client to avoid moving the fingers on the left hand. D. Touch the cast with the palms of the hands when moving the client.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A) Position the cast on a plastic-covered pillow:
Positioning the cast on a plastic-covered pillow is not recommended because the plastic can trap moisture and heat, potentially affecting the cast's integrity as it dries. Instead, a soft, absorbent material should be used to support the cast.

B) Perform neurovascular checks every 2 hr:
Frequent neurovascular checks are essential to monitor for complications such as compartment syndrome, nerve damage, or impaired circulation. This action helps ensure that any changes in sensation, movement, or circulation are identified and addressed promptly.

C) Instruct the client to avoid moving the fingers on the left hand:
Encouraging the client to move their fingers is important to prevent stiffness and swelling and to promote circulation. Instructing the client to avoid moving their fingers is not appropriate and could lead to complications.

D) Touch the cast with the palms of the hands when moving the client:
Handling a wet plaster cast with the palms of the hands is correct to prevent indentations and pressure points that could cause skin irritation or pressure sores. However, this action is not as critical as performing frequent neurovascular checks to ensure the client's safety and monitor for complications.

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A nurse in an emergency department is assisting a provider who is assessing a client who has suspected appendicitis. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

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