Which assessment finding would be indicative of peritoneal irritation in a patient with a bowel obstruction?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking to identify the assessment finding that indicates peritoneal irritation in a patient suffering from a bowel obstruction. This requires knowledge of clinical signs related to abdominal conditions.
Answer
Increased abdominal wall rigidity (guarding).
The final answer is increased abdominal wall rigidity, also known as guarding.
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is increased abdominal wall rigidity, also known as guarding.
More Information
Increased abdominal wall rigidity is a classic sign of peritoneal irritation. This rigidity can be due to involuntary muscular contractions protecting an inflamed area within the abdomen, which is often observed in cases such as peritonitis.
Tips
A common mistake is not differentiating between general symptoms of bowel obstruction and specific signs of peritoneal irritation. Look for signs of guarding or rigidity in the abdominal wall.
Sources
- Peritonitis and Abdominal Sepsis Clinical Presentation - emedicine.medscape.com
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