Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 72%
Simulated
A nurse is caring for a client who has peptic ulcer disease. The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following findings as an indication of gastrointestinal perforation?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
Sudden abdominal pain is a classic sign of perforation, causing peritonitis. Bowel sounds may be diminished, not hyperactive. Tachycardia, not bradycardia, occurs due to pain or shock. Hypotension, not increased blood pressure, is typical.