A nurse is caring for a client with peritonitis and observes a rigid, board-like abdomen upon palpation. The nurse recognizes this finding as:

Rebound tenderness

Paralytic ileus

Abdominal compartment syndrome

Guarding

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

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.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Correcting electrolyte imbalances is important in fluid resuscitation, but the primary goal is to prevent circulatory collapse and restore hemodynamic stability.

Choice B reason:

The primary goal of fluid resuscitation in peritonitis is to prevent circulatory collapse and maintain adequate blood pressure and perfusion to vital organs.

Choice C reason:

Maintaining adequate urine output is one of the indicators of effective fluid resuscitation, but it is not the primary goal in this context.

Choice D reason:

Restoring fluid balance is a goal of fluid resuscitation, but the primary focus is on preventing circulatory collapse and ensuring adequate tissue perfusion.

A. Hypothermia B. Hypertension C. Hyperventilation D. Systemic inflammatory response

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Hypothermia refers to abnormally low body temperature and is not associated with the clinical presentation of peritonitis.

Choice B reason:

Hypertension refers to high blood pressure and is not directly associated with the signs of peritonitis.

Choice C reason:

Hyperventilation involves rapid breathing but may not always be present in peritonitis.

Choice D reason:

The client's elevated temperature, rapid heart rate, and shallow breathing are indicative of a systemic inflammatory response, which is a characteristic feature of peritonitis.

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A nurse is caring for a client with peritonitis and observes a rigid, board-like abdomen upon palpation. The nurse recognizes this finding as:

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client with peritonitis is prescribed intravenous (IV) fluid resuscitation. The nurse understands that the primary goal of fluid resuscitation is to:

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A client with peritonitis presents with an elevated temperature, rapid heart rate, and shallow breathing. The nurse recognizes these signs as indicative of:

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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

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