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 D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
While music therapy can be a helpful adjunct for pain management, it is not a replacement for all pain medications. Pain management should be individualized, and the statement that music therapy alone will eliminate the need for all medication is not accurate.
Choice B rationale:
Discontinuing music therapy when the patient is no longer responsive may not be the best approach. Music therapy can still provide comfort and support even if the patient is not responsive in the traditional sense. It should be continued if it benefits the patient.
Choice C rationale:
Playing music is not intended to increase alertness but rather to provide comfort and relaxation. This statement reflects a misunderstanding of the purpose of music therapy in pain management.
Choice D rationale:
This statement correctly indicates an understanding of the purpose of music therapy. Music can distract the patient from pain and provide a sense of comfort and relaxation without completely eliminating awareness of pain.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Soft bowel sounds at a rate of 1 per minute describe hypoactive bowel sounds, which indicate decreased motility. This choice does not describe hyperactive bowel sounds.
Choice B rationale:
High-pitched bowel sounds are characteristic of hyperactive bowel sounds. These sounds are associated with increased motility and can indicate conditions such as diarrhea or early bowel obstruction. This choice correctly describes hyperactive bowel sounds.
Choice C rationale:
The absence of bowel sounds after listening for 3 to 5 minutes is indicative of absent or hypoactive bowel sounds, not hyperactive bowel sounds.
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