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A nurse is assessing a client with suspected peritonitis. Which clinical finding is a hallmark sign of this condition?

Severe headache and neck stiffness

Rapid and shallow breathing

Abdominal rigidity and tenderness

Hyperactive bowel sounds

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A reason:

Severe headache and neck stiffness are signs of meningitis and are not directly related to peritonitis.

Choice B reason:

Rapid and shallow breathing may occur with other respiratory conditions but is not a hallmark sign of peritonitis.

Choice C reason:

Abdominal rigidity and tenderness are hallmark signs of peritonitis and are caused by the inflammation of the peritoneum.

Choice D reason:

Hyperactive bowel sounds may occur with gastrointestinal disorders but are not specific to peritonitis.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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.

A. Increased blood pressure B. Bradycardia C. Warm, flushed skin D. Rapid, shallow breathing

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Increased blood pressure is not characteristic of septic shock. Septic shock is associated with low blood pressure.

Choice B reason:

Bradycardia is not a typical sign of septic shock. Tachycardia is more common in septic shock.

Choice C reason:

Warm, flushed skin is not typical in septic shock. Septic shock is associated with cold, clammy skin.

Choice D reason:

Rapid, shallow breathing is a common early sign of septic shock and indicates the body's attempt to compensate for the decreased cardiac output.

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A nurse is assessing a client with suspected peritonitis. Which clinical finding is a hallmark sign of this condition?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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:

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A client with peritonitis is at risk of developing septic shock. Which clinical manifestation should the nurse closely monitor to detect early signs of septic shock?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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 nurse is providing care to a client with peritonitis and is reviewing the client's medication history. Which medication places the client at an increased risk of developing peritonitis?

A client with peritonitis is receiving intravenous (IV) antibiotics. The nurse should monitor the client for which potential side effect of antibiotic therapy?

A nurse is providing education to a group of clients about peritonitis and its risk factors. Which client is at the highest risk for developing peritonitis?

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?

A client is recovering from peritonitis and is being discharged from the hospital. The nurse provides discharge instructions and emphasizes the importance of:

A client with suspected peritonitis is scheduled for diagnostic paracentesis. The nurse explains to the client that this procedure involves:

A client underwent abdominal surgery and is now at risk of developing peritonitis. The nurse teaches the client about the early signs and symptoms of peritonitis. What should the nurse include in the teaching?