Question

The nurse is assessing a client who has come to the emergency department with acute abdominal pain. The client is very thin and the nurse observes visible peristaltic movements when inspecting the abdomen. What does the nurse suspect?

Answer 1

The nurse may suspect a condition called intestinal obstruction. Intestinal obstruction occurs when there is a blockage in the intestines, preventing the normal flow of food, fluid, and gas through the digestive system. Visible peristaltic movements in the thin client's abdomen suggest that the intestines are trying to push against the obstruction.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse may suspect a condition called intestinal obstruction.

Intestinal obstruction occurs when there is a partial or complete blockage in the intestines, preventing the normal flow of food, fluid, and gas through the digestive system.

Visible peristaltic movements in the thin client's abdomen suggest that the intestines are trying to push against the obstruction, causing the visible wave-like movements. This can be a sign of a mechanical obstruction, such as a tumor or scar tissue.