A 25-year-old man is evaluated in the emergency department after a motor vehicle collision. The physical assessment shows intact airways, normal breathing, and the pulse is 108/min. The blood pressure is 120/80 mm Hg and the respirations are 20/min. There is a bluish discoloration in the central lower abdomen, associated with tenderness in the suprapubic area. Chest and pelvic x-ray do not show any fractures. Ultrasound reveals free intraperitoneal fluid. Urinalysis is positive for blood. CT scan of the abdomen would most likely show?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Eductional Objective: A Full bladder rises in the abdominal cavity to be covered by the peritoneum. Lower blunt abdominal trauma exaggerates the pressure within the bladder, leading to the bladder's dome rupture. Bladder rupture spills urine into the peritoneal cavity causing chemical peritonitis.

A 25-Year-Old Man Is Evaluated in the Emergency Department After