Brunner & Suddarth's Textbook of Medical-Surgical Nursing 14e (Hinkle 2017) - Emergency Nursing Related

Review Brunner & Suddarth's Textbook of Medical-Surgical Nursing 14e (Hinkle 2017) - Emergency Nursing related questions and content

A patient is admitted to the ED complaining of abdominal pain. Further assessment of the abdomen reveals signs of peritoneal irritation. What assessment findings would corroborate this diagnosis? Select all that apply.

  • A. Ascites
  • B. Rebound tenderness
  • C. Changes in bowel sounds
  • D. Muscular rigidity
  • E. Copious diarrhea
Correct Answer: B,C,D

Rationale: Rebound tenderness, altered bowel sounds, and muscular rigidity indicate peritoneal irritation. Ascites and diarrhea are not specific to this condition.