Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 72%
Simulated
A nurse is caring for a school-age child who has appendicitis. For which of the following findings should the nurse monitor as a manifestation of a perforated appendix and report to the provider?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
A perforated appendix can cause fever due to infection or peritonitis, requiring immediate reporting. Lethargy and bradycardia are nonspecific, and decreased abdominal girth is not typical.