Which of the following is a common finding in appendicitis?

Prepare for the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP Certification Test. Study with interactive tools and practice questions complete with hints and explanations. Start your journey towards becoming a specialist NP today!

The most common finding in appendicitis is localized tenderness in the right lower quadrant, which is consistent with the typical presentation of the condition. In appendicitis, inflammation of the appendix results in pain that usually begins around the umbilical area and then shifts to the right lower quadrant, where the appendix is located. This tenderness is a key indicator in the physical examination of a patient suspected of having appendicitis.

High fever can occur in appendicitis, but it is not always present and is typically lower grade if it does appear. Severe constipation is not a classic symptom associated with appendicitis; in fact, patients might experience diarrhea instead, or their bowel habits could remain unchanged. The mention of right thigh extension pain specifically refers to a sign known as the psoas sign, which occurs when the psoas muscle is irritated, often indicating an inflamed appendix. However, this specific finding is not as commonly assessed or as definitive as localized tenderness in the right lower quadrant.

Thus, recognizing the common clinical presentation and associated signs of appendicitis is crucial for prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy