Wong's Essentials of Pediatric Nursing 11th Edition Test Bank - The Child with Gastrointestinal Dysfunction Related

Review Wong's Essentials of Pediatric Nursing 11th Edition Test Bank - The Child with Gastrointestinal Dysfunction related questions and content

When caring for a child with probable appendicitis, the nurse should be alert to recognize which sign or symptom as a manifestation of perforation?

  • A. Anorexia
  • B. Bradycardia
  • C. Sudden relief from pain
  • D. Decreased abdominal distention
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Sudden pain relief after perforation indicates peritonitis, a critical complication. Anorexia is a pre-existing appendicitis symptom, tachycardia (not bradycardia) accompanies peritonitis, and abdominal distention typically increases with perforation.