A patient is admitted to the emergency department for evaluation of right lower-quadrant abdominal pain with nausea and vomiting. The patient has a white blood cell count (WBC) of 14,000/ml with a shift to the left. Which of these actions is appropriate for the nurse to take?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's clinical manifestations are consistent appendicitis, and application of an ice pack will decrease inflammation at the area. The patient should be NPO in case immediate surgery is needed. Checking for rebound tenderness frequently is unnecessary and uncomfortable for the patient. The patient will need to know how to cough and deep breathe postoperatively, but coughing will increase pain and the patient is not likely to retain information at this point.

A Patient Is Admitted to the Emergency Department for Evaluation