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:
Slower metabolism is a normal age-related change but is not directly related to an increased susceptibility to peritonitis in older adults.
Choice B reason:
Older adults may have decreased immune function, which can increase their susceptibility to infections, including peritonitis.
Choice C reason:
Increased bone density is not directly related to an increased susceptibility to peritonitis in older adults.
Choice D reason:
Reduced gastrointestinal motility is a normal age-related change but is not directly related to an increased susceptibility to peritonitis in older adults.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Anxiety may lead to restlessness, but the assumption of a fetal position suggests a pain response, which is a common finding in peritonitis.
Choice B reason:
Fatigue may lead to restlessness, but it does not explain the assumption of a fetal position, which is a pain-coping mechanism.
Choice C reason:
The client assuming a fetal position and exhibiting restlessness are indicative of pain, which is a common symptom in peritonitis.
Choice D reason:
Respiratory distress is not directly related to the findings described in the scenario.
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