A nurse is assessing a client suspected of having peritonitis. Which diagnostic test is most likely to be performed to confirm the diagnosis?

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

Complete blood count (CBC)

Chest X-ray

Abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

Choice A reason:

An electrocardiogram (ECG) is used to assess the electrical activity of the heart and is not specific to diagnosing peritonitis.

Choice B reason:

A complete blood count (CBC) may reveal elevated white blood cell count and inflammatory markers, but it alone cannot confirm the diagnosis of peritonitis.

Choice C reason:

A chest X-ray may be performed to rule out other conditions, but it is not the primary diagnostic test for peritonitis.

Choice D reason:

An abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan is a valuable diagnostic tool for identifying signs of inflammation and infection in the peritoneal cavity, aiding in the confirmation of peritonitis.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Abdominal compartment syndrome may present with abdominal distension and firmness but is not directly associated with hypotension and tachycardia.

Choice B reason:

Respiratory distress syndrome may manifest with respiratory symptoms such as dyspnea and decreased oxygen saturation but is not directly associated with hypotension and tachycardia.

Choice C reason:

Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory response to infection and can cause hypotension and tachycardia as part of its clinical presentation.

Choice D reason:

Gastrointestinal bleeding may present with symptoms such as melena or hematemesis but is not directly associated with hypotension and tachycardia.

A. Chest X-ray B. Electrocardiogram (ECG) C. Abdominal ultrasound D. Complete blood count (CBC)

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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A nurse is assessing a client suspected of having peritonitis. Which diagnostic test is most likely to be performed to confirm the diagnosis?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client with peritonitis develops hypotension and tachycardia. The nurse recognizes these signs as possible indications of which complication?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A client with a history of appendectomy develops peritonitis. The nurse anticipates which diagnostic test to confirm the diagnosis?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse is providing education to a group of older adult clients about the risk factors for peritonitis. Which factor is most likely to increase the susceptibility to peritonitis in older adults?

A nurse is preparing a care plan for a client with peritonitis. Which nursing intervention is essential to include in the plan to address potential complications of this condition?

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

A client with suspected peritonitis is undergoing abdominal imaging. The nurse prepares the client for which diagnostic imaging modality that can provide detailed images of the peritoneal organs and structures?

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 prescribed intravenous (IV) antibiotics. The nurse ensures to:

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