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?

A. Monitor for bloody diarrheal stools: While monitoring stool characteristics is important in clients with inflammatory bowel disease, the development of a rigid abdomen with rebound tenderness suggests an acute abdominal complication, such as perforation, which is a medical emergency. Stool monitoring does not address the immediate risk. B. Obtain vital sign measurements: A rigid abdomen with rebound tenderness can indicate peritonitis or bowel perforation, both of which may rapidly lead to sepsis or shock. Obtaining vital signs immediately allows the nurse to assess for hypotension, tachycardia, fever, or other signs of hemodynamic instability, guiding urgent interventions and notifying the healthcare provider promptly. C. Encourage ambulation in the room: Ambulation is generally encouraged in hospitalized clients to prevent complications such as venous thromboembolism, but it is contraindicated in a client with signs of acute abdominal pathology. Movement could worsen pain or precipitate further injury if a perforation or severe inflammation is present. D. Measure capillary glucose level: Corticosteroids can increase blood glucose levels, so glucose monitoring is important in general management. However, it is not the immediate priority when the client demonstrates signs of a potentially life-threatening abdominal complication. Immediate assessment of hemodynamic status and rapid notification of the healthcare provider take priority.