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Questions and Answers
The __________ lies in the retroperitoneal space.
The __________ lies in the retroperitoneal space.
- Pancreas (correct)
- Small intestine
- Liver
- Stomach
Which of the following is NOT a solid organ?
Which of the following is NOT a solid organ?
- Gallbladder (correct)
- Kidney
- Spleen
- Liver
Based on your findings, you should suspect:
Based on your findings, you should suspect:
- Appendicitis
- Cholecystitis
- Pancreatitis
- Peritonitis (correct)
Most patients with an acute abdomen present with:
Most patients with an acute abdomen present with:
Which of the following signs or symptoms would you be LEAST likely to find in a patient with an acute abdomen?
Which of the following signs or symptoms would you be LEAST likely to find in a patient with an acute abdomen?
A condition in which a person experiences a loss of appetite is called:
A condition in which a person experiences a loss of appetite is called:
The medical term for inflammation of the urinary bladder is:
The medical term for inflammation of the urinary bladder is:
If a hernia is incarcerated and the contents are so greatly compressed that circulation is compromised, the hernia is said to be:
If a hernia is incarcerated and the contents are so greatly compressed that circulation is compromised, the hernia is said to be:
Treatment for a patient with severe, tearing abdominal pain that radiates to the back should include:
Treatment for a patient with severe, tearing abdominal pain that radiates to the back should include:
In which position do most patients with acute abdominal pain prefer to be transported?
In which position do most patients with acute abdominal pain prefer to be transported?
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Study Notes
Retroperitoneal Space
- The pancreas lies in the retroperitoneal space, behind the peritoneum.
- Other organs in this space include the kidneys and ovaries.
- Acute abdominal pain may arise from conditions affecting retroperitoneal organs.
Solid vs. Hollow Organs
- The gallbladder is a hollow organ responsible for storing and concentrating bile.
- In contrast, the liver, kidney, and spleen are classified as solid organs.
- Understanding organ classification is essential for assessing abdominal conditions.
Peritonitis
- Peritonitis is the inflammation of the membrane lining the abdominal cavity, causing diffuse abdominal pain.
- Common causes include infections and abdominal trauma.
- This condition differs from appendicitis, pancreatitis, and cholecystitis, which typically present with localized pain.
Acute Abdomen Presentation
- Tachycardia is a common symptom among patients presenting with an acute abdomen.
- Distress signals include rapid heart rate in response to pain or shock.
Signs and Symptoms of Acute Abdomen
- A soft, nondistended abdomen is least likely to be found in acute abdomen cases, often indicating non-serious conditions.
- Other common symptoms include tachycardia, rapid shallow breathing, and restlessness.
Loss of Appetite
- Anorexia is the medical term for a loss of appetite, impacting patients with various conditions.
Urinary Bladder Inflammation
- Cystitis refers to the inflammation of the urinary bladder, while nephritis pertains to kidney inflammation.
Hernia Complications
- An incarcerated hernia with compromised circulation is termed strangulated.
- Prompt medical intervention is necessary to prevent further complications.
Suspected Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)
- Severe, tearing abdominal pain radiating to the back is characteristic of AAA, particularly in older patients with a history of hypertension.
- Immediate treatment includes rapid transport to medical facilities and administration of high-flow oxygen.
- Avoid firm abdominal palpation to prevent risk of aneurysm rupture.
Position Preference for Acute Abdominal Pain
- Patients with acute abdominal pain often prefer to be transported on their side with knees flexed to alleviate discomfort.
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