ATI Capstone Exam 1 Related

Review ATI Capstone Exam 1 related questions and content

A nurse is caring for a child who is admitted with suspected acute appendicitis. Which of the following manifestations should indicate to the nurse that the child’s appendix is perforated?

  • A. Sudden decrease in abdominal pain.
  • B. Absence of Rovsing’s sign.
  • C. Low-grade fever.
  • D. Rigid abdomen.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Sudden decrease in abdominal pain. A sudden decrease in abdominal pain can indicate a perforated appendix due to the release of pressure and inflammation. This sudden relief occurs when the appendix ruptures, causing the abdominal pain to subside temporarily. This is a critical sign that the appendix has perforated and requires immediate medical attention. The other choices are incorrect because: B: Absence of Rovsing’s sign is not specific to a perforated appendix. C: Low-grade fever is commonly seen in uncomplicated appendicitis and may not necessarily indicate perforation. D: A rigid abdomen is a sign of peritonitis, which can occur with a perforated appendix, but it is not as specific as the sudden decrease in pain.