A nurse is providing education to a group of older adult clients about the risk factors for peritonitis. Which factor is most likely to increase the susceptibility to peritonitis in older adults?

Choice A reason:

Administering oxygen as prescribed is the priority intervention in managing acute respiratory distress to improve oxygenation and support respiratory function.

Choice B reason:

Elevating the head of the bed is helpful for promoting lung expansion, but it is not the priority intervention in managing acute respiratory distress.

Choice C reason:

Monitoring blood pressure regularly is essential in assessing the client's overall condition, but it does not directly address the respiratory distress.

Choice D reason:

Administering bronchodilator medication is not the priority intervention in managing acute respiratory distress unless there is a specific indication for its use.

Choice A reason:

Lying flat in bed may provide some comfort for the client and is not likely to exacerbate the abdominal pain associated with peritonitis.

Choice B reason:

Using a heating pad on the abdomen may provide some relief for the client and is not likely to exacerbate the abdominal pain associated with peritonitis.

Choice C reason:

Deep breathing and coughing exercises may worsen the client's abdominal pain due to the stretching and movement of the peritoneum during these activities.

Choice D reason:

Administering prescribed analgesics is essential for managing the client's pain and providing comfort during the treatment of peritonitis.