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
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Inserting a catheter into the bladder to collect urine is not related to diagnostic paracentesis for peritonitis.
Choice B reason:
Diagnostic paracentesis involves removing fluid from the peritoneal cavity for analysis, helping to identify the presence of infection or inflammation in the peritoneum.
Choice C reason:
Injecting contrast dye into the bloodstream for imaging is not a part of the diagnostic paracentesis procedure.
Choice D reason:
Taking a tissue sample from the peritoneal lining is not the purpose of diagnostic paracentesis.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
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.
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