Final answer:
Assessing a patient with peritonitis, one would expect to find additional signs such as fever, severe abdominal pain, rebound tenderness, and signs of potential sepsis such as altered mental state and reduced urine output, necessitating immediate medical attention.
Step-by-step explanation:
When assessing a patient with peritonitis who is presenting with tachycardia, hypotension, and dehydration, you would also anticipate finding symptoms such as fever, severe abdominal pain, rebound tenderness, and possibly signs of sepsis, which could include altered mental state and decreased urine output due to potential kidney involvement. These findings reflect the body's response to infection and inflammation within the peritoneal cavity. In cases of bacterial peritonitis, symptoms may worsen rapidly, requiring emergency surgical intervention and intensive antibiotic therapy.
Peritonitis can lead to severe complications if not treated promptly, including disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), which can result in organ failure, and even death. Abdominal distention and the inability to pass stool or gas may also be noted, indicating the seriousness of the condition and the need for immediate medical attention. The urgency is underscored by the historical high mortality associated with peritonitis, although advances in critical care and antibiotics have improved outcomes significantly.