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?

 

Choice A rationale:

Asking, "What would your family do without you?" can be seen as judgmental and may not encourage open communication. It doesn't directly address the client's statement about feeling like a burden or wanting to be gone.

Choice B rationale:

Saying, "When you get better you will not feel this way," minimizes the client's feelings and can be invalidating. It does not show empathy or concern for the client's current emotional state.

Choice C rationale:

Asking, "Why would you think a thing like that?" can come across as judgmental and may make the client defensive. It does not directly address the client's emotional distress or suicidal ideation.

Choice D rationale:

This is the correct answer. "Are you thinking of hurting yourself?" is a direct and appropriate question to assess the client's risk of self-harm or suicide. It demonstrates concern for the client's well-being and opens the door for a more in-depth conversation about their feelings and thoughts. Assessing for suicidal ideation is a crucial step in providing appropriate care for a client with depressive disorder.

Choice A rationale:

Applying a cold compress to the client's calf is not the priority in this situation. The client is reporting pain in the calf, which could be indicative of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a potentially serious condition. Monitoring the client's oxygen saturation (pulse oximetry) is a more appropriate action to assess for possible DVT complications, such as a pulmonary embolism.

Choice B rationale:

Monitoring the client's pulse oximetry is the correct action in this scenario. Pain in the calf can be a symptom of DVT, which can lead to reduced blood flow and potential oxygenation issues. Monitoring the client's oxygen saturation levels can help identify any oxygenation problems early.

Choice C rationale:

Instructing the client to massage the calf gently is not recommended in this situation, as it may dislodge a clot if DVT is present. Massaging the calf can be harmful and is contraindicated when DVT is suspected.

Choice D rationale:

Maintaining the leg in a dependent position while in bed is not a recommended action in this case. Elevating the leg can help reduce swelling and improve venous return, but it should be done cautiously, especially if DVT is suspected. Monitoring the client's condition and oxygen saturation takes precedence.