A nurse is caring for a 24-year-old female client in the emergency department (ED).
What is the most likely diagnosis for this client, based on the history, physical exam, and diagnostic results?
Acute appendicitis
Ectopic pregnancy
Ovarian cyst rupture
Acute gastritis
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale: Acute appendicitis is most likely based on the history of sudden onset of severe abdominal pain localized to the right lower quadrant, nausea, vomiting with green bile, and tenderness on physical examination. The ultrasound findings of right lower quadrant tenderness further support this diagnosis. The client's vital signs, including tachycardia and tachypnea, are consistent with the stress and pain caused by acute appendicitis.
Choice B rationale: Ectopic pregnancy is less likely as the client has a negative pregnancy test and reports regular menstrual cycles with her last period occurring one week ago. Additionally, her symptoms are more typical of appendicitis.
Choice C rationale: Ovarian cyst rupture would typically present with sudden onset of pelvic pain, often associated with menstrual irregularities or a history of ovarian cysts. However, the client's presentation and diagnostic results strongly point towards acute appendicitis.
Choice D rationale: Acute gastritis generally presents with epigastric pain, nausea, and vomiting. However, the localization of pain to the right lower quadrant and the ultrasound findings make appendicitis a more likely diagnosis in this case.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"B","dropdown-group-2":"A"}
Explanation
Rationale for correct answers
Neglect: The client’s condition and living situation indicate neglect. The client is frail, has poor hygiene, unkempt hair, dry skin, and visible pressure injuries. The daughter, who is the primary caregiver, admits to being overwhelmed and neglecting the client’s needs, such as hygiene and repositioning. Neglect is defined as the failure to provide necessary care, assistance, and supervision to a dependent individual, leading to harm or potential harm.
Adult Protective Services: As a mandated reporter, the nurse must report the signs of elder mistreatment to Adult Protective Services (APS). APS is responsible for investigating reports of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of elderly or disabled adults. Reporting to APS ensures that the client receives the necessary intervention and support to address the neglect and improve her quality of life.
Rationale for incorrect answers
Abandonment: Abandonment refers to deserting an elderly person, leaving them without the necessary care and support. In this case, the client has not been deserted; her daughter is present and attempting to provide care, although she is overwhelmed and neglectful. Therefore, abandonment is not the correct answer.
Physical abuse: Physical abuse involves the intentional use of physical force that results in bodily injury, pain, or impairment. There is no evidence of physical abuse in this case. The client’s condition is due to neglect, not physical harm inflicted by another person.
Self-neglect: Self-neglect occurs when an individual fails to meet their own basic needs, such as personal hygiene, nutrition, or medical care. In this scenario, the client is dependent on her daughter for care and unable to provide for herself due to limited mobility. The neglect is not self-imposed but rather due to the caregiver's inability to meet her needs.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Assisting the client to void before walking can prevent potential incontinence episodes, which might be embarrassing for the client. Additionally, a full bladder can increase the risk of falls due to discomfort or urgency to get to the restroom quickly.
Choice B rationale
While instructing the client about signs of orthostatic hypotension is important, it is not within the scope of practice for an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) to provide such instructions. This task falls under the responsibility of a licensed nurse.
Choice C rationale
Measuring the client's vital signs before walking helps to assess the client's baseline status and ensures that the client is stable enough to engage in physical activity. Any abnormal readings could indicate the need to postpone or modify the activity.
Choice D rationale
Reporting the onset of any dizziness or light-headedness is crucial for ensuring the client's safety during activity. These symptoms could indicate underlying issues such as orthostatic hypotension or other cardiovascular problems that need to be addressed promptly.
Choice E rationale
Determining if a gait belt is needed ensures that the client receives appropriate support while walking. A gait belt can provide additional stability and help prevent falls, especially for clients with limited tolerance for activity.
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