Question

The nurse is caring for an adolescent client with an intestinal obstruction who presents with severe, colicky abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal distention. Which pathophysiologic mechanism supports the client's clinical presentation?

a. An incompetent lower esophageal sphincter.
b. A weakened diaphragm with high, abdominal pressure
c. Intestinal scar tissue buildup from a chronic condition.
d. A history of having Helicobacter pylori infection.

Answer 1

The pathophysiologic mechanism that supports the client's clinical presentation is intestinal scar tissue buildup from a chronic condition.

Step-by-step explanation:

The pathophysiologic mechanism that supports the adolescent client's clinical presentation of severe, colicky abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal distention is intestinal scar tissue buildup from a chronic condition. Intestinal scar tissue, also known as intestinal adhesions, can develop as a result of various conditions such as previous abdominal surgeries, inflammatory bowel disease, or abdominal infections. These adhesions can cause partial or complete intestinal blockage, leading to the symptoms described in the question.