Three days after a cholecystectomy for cholelithiasis, a female client reports having persistent upper abdominal pain that radiates to her back. Based on these findings, the nurse should observe the client for which pathophysiological condition?
Acute pancreatitis.
Biliary duct obstruction.
Surgical site infection.
Hepatorenal failure.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Acute pancreatitis is a potential complication after cholecystectomy. The persistent upper abdominal pain radiating to the back is a classic symptom of acute pancreatitis. This condition can occur due to the migration of gallstones or other factors affecting the pancreas.
Choice B rationale
Biliary duct obstruction can cause upper abdominal pain, but it is less likely to present with pain radiating to the back. This condition typically presents with jaundice and other symptoms.
Choice C rationale
Surgical site infection can cause abdominal pain, but it is usually localized to the surgical site and does not typically radiate to the back. Other signs of infection, such as fever and redness, would also be present.
Choice D rationale
Hepatorenal failure is a severe condition that can occur in patients with liver disease, but it is not commonly associated with pain radiating to the back. It typically presents with symptoms of liver and kidney dysfunction.
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View Related questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Laying down on each side with knees bent and breathing from the abdomen is not an effective technique for improving gas exchange in emphysema patients.
Choice B rationale
Increasing the breathing rate for a full 30 seconds can lead to hyperventilation and is not recommended for improving gas exchange.
Choice C rationale
Raising hands above the head to expand the diaphragm is not a recognized technique for improving gas exchange in emphysema patients.
Choice D rationale
Drawing air in through the nose and exhaling slowly through pursed lips is an effective technique for improving gas exchange in emphysema patients. This method helps to keep the airways open longer and improves the removal of trapped air.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Palpating large joints for nodules is not the most effective technique for assessing early signs of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Nodules typically appear in more advanced stages of RA and are not an early sign.
Choice B rationale
Observing the skin for lesions is not specific to RA. While skin lesions can be associated with other conditions, they are not a primary indicator of early RA1.
Choice C rationale
Observing the client’s fingers is crucial for detecting early signs of RA. Early RA often presents with swelling, tenderness, and stiffness in the small joints of the fingers.
Choice D rationale
Palpating the lymph nodes is not relevant for early RA assessment. Lymph node enlargement is not a typical early sign of RA1.