During assessment of a patient who is new to the critical unit, the nurse observes perianal ecchymosis.The nurse suspects the patient has a
A) pelvic fracture.
B) bladder trauma.
C) rectal laceration.
D) spleen laceration.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Signs of pelvic fracture include perianal ecchymosis (scrotum or vulva)indicating extravasation of urine or blood, pain on palpation or "rocking" of the iliac crests, lower limb paresis or hypesthesia, and hematuria.A large percentage of bladder injuries result from pelvic fractures.Physical findings may include lower abdominal bruising, distention, and pain.More definitive findings include difficulty in voiding or incomplete recovery of irrigation fluids from catheterized patients.

During Assessment of a Patient Who Is New to the Critical