Question

A 16-year-old presents at the emergency department complaining of right lower quadrant pain and is subsequently diagnosed with appendicitis. When planning this patients nursing care, the nurse should prioritize what nursing diagnosis?

A. Imbalanced Nutrition: Less Than Body Requirements Related to Decreased Oral Intake
B. Risk for Infection Related to Possible Rupture of Appendix
C. Constipation Related to Decreased Bowel Motility and Decreased Fluid Intake
D. Chronic Pain Related to Appendicitis

Answer 1

The nurse should prioritize the nursing diagnosis of 'Risk for Infection Related to Possible Rupture of Appendix' for a patient with appendicitis to prevent peritonitis.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nursing diagnosis that should be prioritized for a 16-year-old patient diagnosed with appendicitis is Risk for Infection Related to Possible Rupture of Appendix. Appendicitis is a condition where the appendix becomes infected and inflamed and can lead to severe complications if the appendix ruptures, spreading infection throughout the abdominal cavity and potentially leading to peritonitis, which is a life-threatening condition. Early recognition and prompt surgical intervention to remove the infected appendix are critical in preventing the spread of infection.