A nurse is assessing a patient who has peritonitis. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Choice A rationale Hyperactive bowel sounds would not be expected in a patient with peritonitis. Peritonitis is an inflammation of the peritoneum, which often results in paralytic ileus due to the inflammatory response and chemical irritation. This leads to decreased or absent bowel motility, and therefore, the nurse would expect to find hypoactive or absent bowel sounds upon auscultation. Choice B rationale Increased urinary output is an unlikely finding in a patient with peritonitis. The inflammatory response and fluid shifts into the third space can lead to hypovolemia, decreased renal perfusion, and reduced urine output. A patient with peritonitis is more likely to experience oliguria or even anuria as a result of the body's compensatory mechanisms to maintain circulating blood volume. Choice C rationale Rigid abdomen is a classic and significant finding in a patient with peritonitis. This is due to the involuntary guarding of the abdominal muscles, which contract as a protective response to the irritation of the parietal peritoneum. This board-like rigidity is a critical indicator of severe abdominal inflammation and requires immediate medical attention. Choice D rationale Frequent bowel movements are not expected. Peritonitis causes decreased or absent bowel motility due to paralytic ileus. This condition, combined with the pain and inflammation, would likely lead to constipation or the absence of bowel sounds, rather than frequent bowel movements, which are more characteristic of conditions like gastroenteritis.