A client with rectal cancer may exhibit which of the following symptoms?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of rectal cancer, the correct symptom that a client may exhibit is rectal bleeding (Option C). This is because rectal cancer often presents with symptoms such as blood in the stool, changes in bowel habits, and rectal bleeding. Option A, abdominal fullness, is not typically a primary symptom of rectal cancer. Abdominal fullness may be seen in other gastrointestinal conditions like ascites or bowel obstruction, but it is not a hallmark symptom of rectal cancer. Option B, gastric fullness, is more indicative of issues within the stomach or upper gastrointestinal tract, such as gastritis or gastric outlet obstruction. It is not directly related to rectal cancer. Option D, right upper quadrant pain, is commonly associated with issues involving the liver or gallbladder, such as cholecystitis or hepatitis. It is not a typical symptom of rectal cancer. Educationally, understanding the specific symptoms associated with different types of cancer is crucial for nurses to provide early detection and appropriate interventions. Recognizing the key signs of rectal cancer can lead to timely diagnosis and improved patient outcomes. Nurses play a vital role in patient education, screening, and support for individuals at risk for colorectal cancers.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of rectal cancer versus colon cancer treatment, understanding the key differences in management strategies is crucial. The correct answer is C) Radiation. Radiation therapy is often used specifically for rectal cancer due to its anatomical proximity to surrounding structures such as the pelvic organs. Rectal cancer treatment commonly involves a combination of radiation and surgery to effectively target the tumor and reduce the risk of local recurrence. Option A) Chemotherapy is a systemic treatment that can be used for both rectal and colon cancer to target cancer cells throughout the body. It is not a treatment that distinguishes between the two types of cancer based on location. Option B) Colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure used to visualize the colon and rectum for abnormalities such as polyps or tumors. While it is essential for screening and surveillance in both colon and rectal cancers, it is not a treatment modality. Option D) Surgical resection is a common treatment approach for both rectal and colon cancer, involving the removal of the tumor along with surrounding healthy tissue. However, the key difference lies in the extent and type of surgery needed based on the location and stage of the cancer, rather than being exclusive to rectal cancer. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of understanding the nuances in treatment modalities for different types of gastrointestinal cancers. It underscores the need for tailored approaches in oncology based on tumor location, stage, and individual patient factors to optimize outcomes and minimize risks associated with each treatment option.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Perforated ulcer. Peritonitis is the inflammation of the peritoneum, the lining of the abdominal cavity, usually caused by contamination from a perforated viscus. A perforated ulcer is a breach in the wall of the stomach or intestines, allowing gastric or intestinal contents to leak into the peritoneal cavity, leading to peritonitis. Option A) Cholelithiasis refers to the presence of gallstones in the gallbladder and does not directly cause peritonitis. Option B) Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining and does not involve perforation or leakage of contents. Option D) Incarcerated hernia involves a trapped segment of the intestine in the hernia sac but does not necessarily lead to perforation and peritonitis. Educationally, understanding the direct causes of peritonitis is crucial in medical-surgical nursing. Recognizing conditions like perforated ulcers that can lead to this serious complication is essential for prompt intervention and preventing further complications for the patient. Nurses need to be able to differentiate between various abdominal pathologies to provide appropriate care and ensure positive patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the early stages of peritonitis, a client would exhibit abdominal pain and rigidity, which is the correct answer (B). Peritonitis is inflammation of the peritoneum, the membrane lining the abdominal cavity. Abdominal pain and rigidity are hallmark signs of peritonitis due to irritation of the peritoneum by infectious agents or chemicals. The pain is usually sudden and severe, worsens with movement or coughing, and the abdomen becomes rigid due to involuntary guarding to protect the inflamed area. Option A, abdominal distention, is more characteristic of conditions like bowel obstruction or gas accumulation rather than early peritonitis. Option C, hyperactive bowel sounds, are more indicative of early obstruction or gastroenteritis, not peritonitis. Option D, right upper quadrant pain, is more commonly associated with conditions affecting the liver or gallbladder, such as cholecystitis, rather than peritonitis. Educationally, understanding the progression and presentation of peritonitis is crucial for nurses caring for patients at risk. Recognizing the early signs can lead to prompt intervention and prevent further complications. Nurses need to be able to differentiate between various abdominal conditions to provide timely and appropriate care to patients experiencing acute abdominal pain.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In a client with peritonitis, the correct laboratory result that would be expected is a white blood cell count above 15,000 (Option D). Peritonitis is an inflammatory process involving the peritoneum, often caused by infection. This leads to an increased white blood cell count as the body tries to fight off the infection. Option A, partial thromboplastin time above 100 seconds, is not typically associated with peritonitis. Peritonitis is more likely to affect the white blood cell count rather than clotting factors. Option B, hemoglobin level below 10 mg/dL, is not a direct result of peritonitis. Hemoglobin levels may be affected by bleeding or anemia but are not a specific marker for peritonitis. Option C, potassium level above 5.5 mEq/L, is not a common finding in peritonitis. Elevated potassium levels are more commonly seen in conditions like renal failure or severe tissue damage. Understanding the specific laboratory findings associated with peritonitis is crucial for nurses caring for patients with this condition. Recognizing these abnormalities can help in early identification and prompt treatment of peritonitis, which is essential in preventing complications and improving patient outcomes.