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A nurse is assisting with a diagnostic paracentesis for a client with suspected peritonitis. The nurse understands that this procedure involves:

Removal of fluid from the pleural cavity

Removal of fluid from the pericardial sac

Removal of fluid from the peritoneal cavity

Removal of fluid from the spinal canal

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A reason:

Removal of fluid from the pleural cavity would be a thoracentesis, not a paracentesis.

Choice B reason:

Removal of fluid from the pericardial sac would be a pericardiocentesis, not a paracentesis.

Choice C reason:

A diagnostic paracentesis involves removing fluid from the peritoneal cavity to analyze for signs of infection and inflammation, which is important in diagnosing peritonitis.

Choice D reason:

Removal of fluid from the spinal canal would be a lumbar puncture, not a paracentesis.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A reason:

An electrocardiogram (ECG) is used to assess the electrical activity of the heart and is not specific to diagnosing peritonitis.

Choice B reason:

A complete blood count (CBC) may reveal elevated white blood cell count and inflammatory markers, but it alone cannot confirm the diagnosis of peritonitis.

Choice C reason:

A chest X-ray may be performed to rule out other conditions, but it is not the primary diagnostic test for peritonitis.

Choice D reason:

An abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan is a valuable diagnostic tool for identifying signs of inflammation and infection in the peritoneal cavity, aiding in the confirmation of peritonitis.

A. Ascites B. Intestinal obstruction C. Appendicitis D. Pancreatitis

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.

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A nurse is assisting with a diagnostic paracentesis for a client with suspected peritonitis. The nurse understands that this procedure involves:

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is assessing a client suspected of having peritonitis. Which diagnostic test is most likely to be performed to confirm the diagnosis?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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 nurse is caring for a client with peritonitis and is reviewing the client's medical history. Which condition places the client at an increased risk of developing peritonitis?

A client with peritonitis is experiencing severe abdominal pain. The nurse recognizes that this pain may be exacerbated by which factor?

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 presents to the emergency department with severe abdominal pain, tenderness, and fever. The client reports a recent history of ruptured appendix. The nurse suspects the client may be experiencing:

A nurse is assisting with a diagnostic paracentesis for a client with suspected peritonitis. The nurse understands that this procedure involves:

A client with peritonitis is undergoing diagnostic imaging. The nurse explains to the client that the purpose of this imaging is to:

A client with peritonitis is experiencing abdominal distension and decreased bowel sounds. The nurse suspects the presence of:

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?