Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 63%
Simulated
A nurse is collecting data from a client who has peptic ulcer disease. Which of the following findings is a manifestation of gastrointestinal perforation?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
Severe upper abdominal pain is a hallmark symptom of gastrointestinal perforation. Perforation can lead to the leakage of gastric contents into the peritoneal cavity, causing intense, sharp pain in the upper abdomen. The pain may be sudden and severe and can radiate to the back or shoulders.