Final answer:
After perforated appendix repair, a nurse might expect an absence of peristalsis due to post-operative ileus. Signs of infection like purulent nasogastric drainage could be present, and a normal WBC could be expected unless there's an active infection.
Step-by-step explanation:
A nurse assessing a school-age child immediately following a perforated appendix repair may expect signs consistent with post-surgical recovery and potential complications. Since a perforated appendix can lead to peritonitis, a condition where the lining of the abdominal cavity is inflamed, the nurse might anticipate the absence of peristalsis, potentially due to an ileus (temporary cessation of bowel movements) post-surgery. The presence of purulent nasogastric drainage could be a sign of infection or residual effects of peritonitis. A passage of dark red stool with mucus would be unusual immediately post-surgery for an appendix repair; however, if present may indicate gastrointestinal bleeding or other complications. A white blood cell count (WBC) of 6,000 falls within the normal range (approximately 4,500 to 11,000 WBC per microliter), which may or may not be expected depending on the presence and stage of infection, as well as the body's inflammatory response to surgery and the previous appendix perforation.