2- Appendicitis Flashcards Preview

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Flashcards in 2- Appendicitis Deck (9)
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0
Q

Symptoms and manifestations

A
RLQ pain
Light Fever
Nausea & sometimes vomiting
Loss of appetite
  *Possibly rebound tenderness or Rovsing's Sign
1
Q

Risk factors for appendicitis

A

Age 10-30
Winter months
Family history esp with Males
Cystic fibrosis

2
Q

Locations of pain other than RLQ

A

Lumbar Region - the appendix curled behind the cecum.
Pain during defection- tip is against rectum
Pain on urination- tip is near the bladder or urethra

3
Q

Ruptured appendix

A

Abdominal distention
Pain becomes diffuse
Pt’s condition worsens.

4
Q

Elderly and appendicitis

A

Uncommon
Absent or minimal pain
Symptoms may indicate bowel obstruction
Poss. no fever

Incidence of ruptured appendix is higher because they may wait to seek healthcare or may be misdiagnosed.

5
Q

Medical and nursing management

A

Immediate surgery laparoscopy or laparotomy.
Antibiotics and IV fluids.
Nasogastric tube for paralytic ileus (obstruction
caused by lack of peristalsis)
AFTER surgery place patient in high fowlers to reduce tension on incision, analgesics, oral fluids, food once bowel sounds appear.

6
Q

Peritonitis

A

Inflammation of the abdominal cavity lining, usually from from bacterial infection in gastrointestinal tract.
Sx: abd tenderness, fever, vomiting, abd rigidity, tachycardia

7
Q

Peritonitis management

A

If the appendix has ruptured and there is a poss of peritonitis a drain may be left in place at the incision. Kept in the hospital and monitored for secondary abscesses- elevated temp, pulse rate, and WBC count

8
Q

Complications of appendicitis

A

Perforated/ruptured appendix leading to :

  • peritonitis
  • abscess formation (collection of Purulent material)
  • portal Pylephlebitis caused by septic intestines

Perforation occurs 24 hrs after onset of pain, symptoms incl fever, toxic appearance, continued abdominal pain or tenderness