A nurse is caring for a school-age child who has appendicitis.
For which of the following findings should the nurse monitor as a manifestation of a perforated appendix and report to the provider?
Bradycardia.
Elevated temperature.
Lethargy.
Decreased abdominal girth.
The Correct Answer is B
The correct answer is Choice B.
Choice A rationale: Bradycardia is not typically associated with a perforated appendix. Instead, tachycardia (increased heart rate) may occur due to pain and infection-related systemic responses. Bradycardia could indicate other unrelated medical issues and should still be monitored.
Choice B rationale: Elevated temperature is a key sign of infection and inflammation, which are common with a perforated appendix. The release of bacteria into the abdominal cavity can cause peritonitis, leading to fever as part of the body's immune response.
Choice C rationale: Lethargy can be a nonspecific symptom and may occur in various conditions. While it can be associated with severe infection, it is not a definitive indicator of a perforated appendix. Monitoring for more specific signs, like fever and pain, is crucial.
Choice D rationale: Decreased abdominal girth is unlikely and not indicative of a perforated appendix. Instead, an increase in abdominal girth due to fluid accumulation (ascites) or air (from perforation) would be more concerning and should be reported promptly.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Informed consent is required for invasive procedures that carry significant risks or potential complications. Placement of a central venous catheter is an invasive procedure that involves inserting a catheter into a large vein, often in the neck, chest, or groin. It carries potential risks such as infection, bleeding, and injury to nearby structures. Therefore, informed consent is necessary before performing this procedure.
Choice B rationale:
Insertion of a nasogastric tube is an invasive procedure, but it is generally considered a routine and less risky procedure compared to others. Informed consent is typically not required for nasogastric tube insertion unless there are specific institutional policies or the client lacks decision-making capacity.
Choice C rationale:
Irrigation of a wound with antibiotic solution is a standard nursing procedure, and informed consent is not typically required for wound care unless there are specific circumstances that make it necessary, such as unusual risks or patient-specific considerations.
Choice D rationale:
Administration of an iron injection using Z-track technique is also an invasive procedure, but it is a common and well-established technique for administering intramuscular injections. Informed consent is not routinely required for this procedure unless there are specific institutional policies or the client's condition warrants it.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
"I will notify my doctor if the stoma starts to look purple" indicates an understanding of the importance of monitoring the colostomy site for signs of compromised blood flow or ischemia. A purple or bluish color of the stoma may suggest reduced blood supply, which is a critical concern and should be reported promptly to the healthcare provider.
Choice B rationale:
"I should expect my stool to be formed" is incorrect. In a colostomy, the type of stool output will depend on the location of the colostomy and the surgical procedure performed. Stool consistency can vary, and it may be formed or semi-formed depending on the individual and the specific situation. Expecting formed stool may not always be accurate.
Choice C rationale:
"I will no longer be able to eat nuts" is not necessarily true for all individuals with a colostomy. While some people may experience digestive difficulties with certain foods, including nuts, it is not a universal rule. Dietary restrictions should be discussed with a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian based on the individual's specific condition and needs.
Choice D rationale:
"I will irrigate the colostomy every day" is not a recommended practice for all colostomy patients. Colostomy irrigation is a procedure that may be performed by some individuals with descending or sigmoid colostomies to regulate bowel movements. However, it is not necessary or appropriate for all colostomy patients. The need for colostomy irrigation should be determined by the healthcare provider and discussed with the patient as part of their individualized care plan.
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