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    HESI RN Med surg proctored exam 3

    A client with cholelithiasis is admitted with jaundice due to obstruction of the common bile duct. Which finding is most important for the nurse to report to the healthcare provider?

    Explanation & Rationale

    Choice A reason: Clay-coloured stool is a symptom of bile duct obstruction. It indicates that bile is not reaching the intestines to help digest food. While this is important to note, it is not the most urgent finding that requires immediate reporting to the healthcare provider.Choice B reason: A distended, hard, and rigid abdomen is a sign of possible peritonitis or other severe abdominal complications. This finding indicates a medical emergency that requires immediate attention and intervention by the healthcare provider. Prompt reporting is essential to prevent further complications and ensure appropriate treatment.Choice C reason: Bile-stained emesis suggests that bile is being regurgitated, which is indicative of a blocked or compromised bile duct. However, this finding does not require as urgent reporting as a rigid abdomen, which could indicate a more serious condition.Choice D reason: Radiating, sharp pain in the right shoulder is often referred pain from gallbladder issues. While this symptom is significant and should be monitored, it does not take precedence over the urgent finding of a distended and rigid abdomen that might indicate a severe complication.

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