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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 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.

A. Administering oxygen as prescribed B. Elevating the head of the bed C. Monitoring blood pressure regularly D. Administering bronchodilator medication

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Administering oxygen as prescribed is the priority intervention in managing acute respiratory distress to improve oxygenation and support respiratory function.

Choice B reason:

Elevating the head of the bed is helpful for promoting lung expansion, but it is not the priority intervention in managing acute respiratory distress.

Choice C reason:

Monitoring blood pressure regularly is essential in assessing the client's overall condition, but it does not directly address the respiratory distress.

Choice D reason:

Administering bronchodilator medication is not the priority intervention in managing acute respiratory distress unless there is a specific indication for its use.

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

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A client with peritonitis is experiencing acute respiratory distress. Which intervention is the nurse's priority in managing this complication?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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