Appendicitis Flashcards
McBurney’s point
Midway between the umbilicus and the anterior iliac crest
Side of the body the appendix is on:
Right
Possible complications r/t acute appendicitis
Perforation, peritonitis, and abscess
Manifestations of perforation:
Increased pain and high fever abdominal distention; can cause death is not treated rapidly
Clinical therapies for peritonitis
Removal of ruptured appendix
Antibiotics
Fluid resuscitation
Supportive treatment to maintain VS
Appendicitis:
Most often the cause is what
An obstruction
Often caused by fecalith (hard mass of feces)
Who is at greatest risk:
Adolescent boys
Diet low in fiber and high in carbs
Increased pain that not relived with appendicitis is a manifestation of a:
Perforation
Clinical Manifestations of Appendix:
On palpation, localized, and rebound tenderness are noted at McBurney point.
Extension or internal rotation of the right hip increase:
The pain
What signs and symptoms are present with appendicitis
Pain, low-grade fever, anorexia, nausea, and vomiting
Diagnosis is delayed in older adults because:
Less acute pain and local tenderness
What is the most effective test for diagnosing acute appendicitis:
Abdominal ultrasound
Other diagnostic test:
Abdominal ultrasound Abdominal x-ray IV pyelogram Urinalysis Pelvic examination WBC w/ diff.
What labs are increased w/ Appendicitis
Total WBC is elevated
Increased number of immature WBCs (bands)
Surgical treatment for appendicitis:
Appendectomy
Pharmacological Therapy
IV fluids
Antibiotic therapy
Analgesics
Common manifestation in older adults:
Present with confusion
Implementation:
Promote effective respiratory exchange Promote fluid volume balance Prevent infection Provide effective pain management Provide effective patient teaching
Type of antibiotic used
Third generation-cephalosporin
Drugs that are cephalosporin Defoperazone
Cefoperazone (Cefobid)
Cefotaxime (Claforan)
Ceftazidime (Fortax)
Ceftriaxone (Rocephin)
What position is comfortable for them:
Fetal position (side lying w/ knees bent)
T/F acute rebound tenderness
True
Diet to help decrease the incidence of appendicitis
High fiber - fruits and vegetables
