A client is hospitalized with an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) exacerbation and is being treated with a corticosteroid. The client develops a rigid abdomen with rebound tenderness. Which action should the nurse take?

Choice A reason: Encouraging ambulation is contraindicated when a client develops a rigid abdomen with rebound tenderness. These are signs of possible peritonitis, a medical emergency. Ambulation could worsen the condition and delay urgent intervention. Choice B reason: Monitoring for bloody diarrheal stools is appropriate for IBD exacerbations, but once a rigid abdomen and rebound tenderness are present, the priority shifts to assessing for systemic compromise. Bloody stools are not the immediate concern compared to potential sepsis or shock. Choice C reason: Measuring capillary glucose level is relevant because corticosteroids can cause hyperglycemia. However, this is not the priority when acute abdominal rigidity and rebound tenderness suggest peritonitis. Immediate assessment of systemic stability is more urgent. Choice D reason: Obtaining vital sign measurements is the correct action because it provides critical information about the client’s hemodynamic status. A rigid abdomen with rebound tenderness indicates possible perforation and peritonitis, which can rapidly progress to sepsis and shock. Vital signs help determine the severity of the condition and guide urgent interventions such as notifying the healthcare provider and preparing for possible surgical management.