Medical Surgical ATI Proctored Exam Related

Review Medical Surgical ATI Proctored Exam related questions and content

On assessment of the abdomen in a patient with peritonitis, you would expect to find

  • A. A soft abdomen with bowel sounds every 2 to 3 seconds.
  • B. Rebound tenderness and guarding (protecting).
  • C. Hyperactive, high-pitched bowel sounds and a firm abdomen.
  • D. Ascites and increased vascular pattern on the skin.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Peritonitis causes rebound tenderness and guarding due to inflammation of the peritoneum.