ATI Nursing Care of Children 2019 B Related

Review ATI Nursing Care of Children 2019 B related questions and content

Which of the following is a hallmark sign of intussusception in children?

  • A. Bilious vomiting
  • B. "Currant jelly" stools
  • C. Abdominal distention
  • D. Constipation
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: "Currant jelly" stools, consisting of mucus and blood, are characteristic of intussusception in children. It occurs due to the telescoping of a segment of the intestine into an adjacent segment, leading to obstruction and subsequent mucosal ischemia, causing the passage of bloody mucus in the stool. Bilious vomiting can be seen in other conditions like bowel obstruction, abdominal distention can be present but is not as specific, and constipation is less likely in the presentation of intussusception.