Final answer:
The next step for a postsurgical patient with lower abdominal distension and pain should include a thorough assessment of symptoms, a careful review of the patient's medical history, and diagnostic imaging such as an abdominal ultrasound to check for abscesses or other abnormalities.
Step-by-step explanation:
The next best step in the management of a postsurgical patient with lower abdominal distension and pain with palpation would depend on a thorough assessment of the patient's symptoms and medical history. Considering differential diagnoses such as appendicitis, urinary tract infection (UTI), pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and complications from recent surgery is crucial. Given that the patient has undergone recent surgery, postoperative complications should be considered. The presence of fever and localized pain could indicate an infection or an abdominal abscess. Other potential issues could be a bowel obstruction or leakage at a surgical site. Immediate steps should include:
- Conducting a detailed patient history and physical examination.
- Utilizing diagnostic imaging such as an abdominal ultrasound to assess for fluid collections, abscesses, or other abnormalities.
- Considering the performance of a laparoscopy if the diagnosis remains unclear, especially in the context of prior abdominal surgery.
It is important to engage a multi-disciplinary team, including the surgeon, to collaborate on diagnosis and management.