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Questions and Answers
Which of the following conditions can lead to peritonitis?
Which of the following conditions can lead to peritonitis?
What is a characteristic sign or symptom of peritonitis?
What is a characteristic sign or symptom of peritonitis?
Which of the following is a diagnostic test commonly used to evaluate peritonitis?
Which of the following is a diagnostic test commonly used to evaluate peritonitis?
What is a potential complication of peritonitis?
What is a potential complication of peritonitis?
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What is a crucial aspect of nursing management for a patient with peritonitis?
What is a crucial aspect of nursing management for a patient with peritonitis?
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Study Notes
Peritonitis
- Inflammation of the peritoneum, caused by:
- Ruptured appendicitis
- Perforated peptic ulcer
- Diverticulitis
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- UTI or trauma
Signs and Symptoms
- Diffuse abdominal pain
- Abdominal guarding/rigidity ("boardlike" abdomen)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diminished bowel sounds
- Paralytic ileus
- Fever
- Signs of early shock: Increased heart rate (HR), increased respiratory rate (RR), decreased urine output
Diagnostic Tests
- Complete Blood Count (CBC)
- Serum electrolytes
- Abdominal X-ray
- CT scan
- Peritoneal aspiration and cultures
Complications
- Sepsis
- Shock
Medical Management
- Fluid, colloid, and electrolyte replacement (IVF)
- Pharmacologic treatment:
- Analgesics
- Massive antibiotic therapy
- Oxygen therapy
- Surgery to drain infected material and correct the cause
Nursing Management
- Monitor vital signs (VS) regularly
- Proper positioning (e.g., fetal position)
- Care of drains (post-operative) and assessment of drainage characteristics
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Description
This quiz covers the key aspects of peritonitis, including its causes, signs and symptoms, diagnostic tests, complications, and management strategies. Explore the nursing and medical interventions essential for effective treatment of this serious condition.