NursingPlex
    Sign In
    Hesi rn health assessment proctored exam

    The nurse examines a client's abdomen. Which finding indicates an abnormal response when palpating the spleen?

    Explanation & Rationale

    A. A firm mass palpated at the bottom of the left rib cage can indicate an enlarged spleen, which is an abnormal finding. Splenomegaly may occur due to various conditions, including infections, liver disease, or blood disorders. B. Rebound tenderness in the right upper quadrant is indicative of potential inflammation or irritation in the abdominal cavity, often associated with appendicitis or other conditions affecting the right lower quadrant. This finding is not specific to the spleen but rather to the general abdominal assessment and does not indicate an abnormal response related to spleen palpation. C. Normally, the spleen is not palpable in most people. However, if the spleen is slightly enlarged, its tip may be palpable during deep palpation or when the client is asked to exhale forcefully. While this can be an abnormal finding, it may still fall within a range of normal variability depending on the clinical context. D. McBurney's point is located in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen and is associated with the appendix. Pain at this location is indicative of potential appendicitis, not an abnormal finding related to spleen palpation. This finding does not provide information about the condition of the spleen.

    🔒 Submit your answer to reveal