Nokea
A client with a history of gastric ulcer suddenly complains of a sharp-severe pain in the mid epigastric area, which then spreads over the entire abdomen. The client's abdomen is rigid and board-like to palpation, and the client obtains most comfort from lying in the knee-chest position. The nurse calls the physician immediately suspecting that the client is experiencing which of the following complications of peptic ulcer disease?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Perforation. The sudden onset of sharp-severe pain, rigidity, and board-like abdomen are classic signs of a perforated gastric ulcer. The spreading pain and relief in the knee-chest position indicate free air in the peritoneal cavity. Perforation is a serious complication requiring immediate medical attention to prevent peritonitis and sepsis.
Choice B: Obstruction is incorrect because it typically presents with a gradual onset of pain, bloating, vomiting, and inability to pass stool or gas.
Choice C: Hemorrhage is incorrect as it usually presents with symptoms like hematemesis, melena, and signs of blood loss such as hypotension and tachycardia.
Choice D: Intractability is incorrect because it refers to the condition being difficult to manage or cure, which is not the acute presentation described in the question.