A nurse is assessing a client with suspected peritonitis. Which symptom should the nurse expect the client to report?
Chest pain
Severe headache
Abdominal pain and tenderness
Shortness of breath
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason:
Chest pain is not a typical symptom of peritonitis, as the condition primarily affects the abdomen.
Choice B reason:
A severe headache is not a characteristic symptom of peritonitis.
Choice C reason:
Abdominal pain and tenderness are hallmark symptoms of peritonitis, resulting from inflammation of the peritoneum lining the abdominal cavity.
Choice D reason:
Shortness of breath is not a common symptom of peritonitis unless there is an associated respiratory complication.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Rebound tenderness refers to increased pain upon release of pressure during palpation and is not related to the finding of a rigid, board-like abdomen.
Choice B reason:
Paralytic ileus refers to a condition in which the intestines stop functioning, causing a lack of bowel sounds and distension, but it is not directly related to the rigid abdomen finding.
Choice C reason:
Abdominal compartment syndrome may cause abdominal distension and increased intra-abdominal pressure, but it does not necessarily result in a rigid, board-like abdomen.
Choice D reason:
The finding of a rigid, board-like abdomen upon palpation is known as guarding, which is a protective response of the abdominal muscles in peritonitis to minimize movement and protect the inflamed peritoneum.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Intravenous antibiotics are the standard treatment for spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) to treat the bacterial infection.
Choice B reason:
A high-protein diet is not the primary intervention for SBP.
Choice C reason:
Oral rehydration solutions are used for rehydration in cases of dehydration but are not the primary treatment for SBP.
Choice D reason:
Bowel rest may be indicated for other conditions but is not the primary intervention for SBP.
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