A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with peritonitis. Which intervention is the highest priority in the management of this condition?

Administering pain medication as prescribed

Monitoring vital signs every 4 hours

Initiating intravenous (IV) antibiotic therapy

Encouraging deep breathing and coughing exercises

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A reason:

Administering pain medication is important for the client's comfort, but it is not the highest priority in the management of peritonitis. Addressing the underlying infection with antibiotics takes precedence.

Choice B reason:

Monitoring vital signs is essential for assessing the client's condition, but initiating antibiotic therapy is more critical to address the underlying infection.

Choice C reason:

Initiating intravenous (IV) antibiotic therapy is the highest priority in the management of peritonitis. Prompt administration of antibiotics is essential to treat the bacterial infection and prevent its spread.

Choice D reason:

Encouraging deep breathing and coughing exercises is beneficial for preventing respiratory complications, but it is not the highest priority compared to addressing the infection with antibiotics.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Assessing for peripheral edema is important for clients with various conditions, but it is not directly related to the potential complications of peritonitis.

Choice B reason:

Monitoring blood glucose levels regularly is essential in clients with peritonitis, as hyperglycemia can be a complication of the inflammatory response and stress associated with the condition.

Choice C reason:

Encouraging fluid intake is essential for clients with peritonitis, but the specific recommendation of 3 liters per day is not universally applicable and may vary based on individual client needs and medical status.

Choice D reason:

Implementing fall precautions is important for clients at risk of falls, but it is not directly related to potential complications of peritonitis.

A. Paralytic ileus B. Gastroenteritis C. Appendicitis D. Constipation

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Abdominal distension and decreased bowel sounds are classic signs of paralytic ileus, a common complication of peritonitis.

Choice B reason:

Gastroenteritis is inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract and may cause diarrhea and abdominal pain but is not related to the specific symptoms described.

Choice C reason:

Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix and is not related to abdominal distension and decreased bowel sounds.

Choice D reason:

Constipation may cause abdominal distension, but decreased bowel sounds are not characteristic of constipation.

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A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with peritonitis. Which intervention is the highest priority in the management of this condition?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is preparing a care plan for a client with peritonitis. Which nursing intervention is essential to include in the plan to address potential complications of this condition?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A client with peritonitis develops acute kidney injury (AKI). Which nursing intervention is essential in the management of this complication?

A client with peritonitis develops an elevated white blood cell count. The nurse recognizes this laboratory finding as indicative of:

A client with peritonitis develops hypotension and tachycardia. The nurse recognizes these signs as possible indications of which complication?

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:

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

A nurse is caring for a client with peritonitis and anticipates the need for a paracentesis. What is the purpose of a paracentesis in this client?

A nurse is providing education to a group of clients about peritonitis and its risk factors. Which client is at the highest risk for developing peritonitis?

A client is admitted to the hospital with peritonitis. The nurse is conducting an assessment and asks the client about their recent medical history. Which risk factor is most likely associated with the development of peritonitis in this client?