A nurse is caring for a client who has appendicitis. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a manifestation of this condition? (Select all that apply.)

A. WBC count 22,000/mm³ (5,000 to 10,000/mm³): Leukocytosis is a common finding in appendicitis due to the inflammatory and infectious process. A significantly elevated WBC count supports the diagnosis and indicates the body’s response to infection. B. Diarrhea: Diarrhea is not a typical manifestation of appendicitis. Clients more commonly present with constipation or localized abdominal pain rather than frequent loose stools, so this finding is not characteristic. C. Rebound tenderness: Rebound tenderness, especially in the right lower quadrant, is a classic sign of peritoneal irritation associated with appendicitis. Pain that increases when pressure is released is a key physical examination finding. D. Low-grade fever: A low-grade fever often accompanies appendicitis due to the body’s inflammatory response. Fever typically develops as the condition progresses and can help differentiate appendicitis from other causes of abdominal pain. E. Hyperactive bowel sounds: Hyperactive bowel sounds are more commonly associated with gastroenteritis or early intestinal obstruction. In appendicitis, bowel sounds are often normal or decreased, particularly if peritoneal irritation is present.