Welcome to SimplyRN!
This channel is focused on helping nursing students pass their NCLEX. You will see short and precise videos that you can binge-watch (or binge-listen!) as you study, go to the gym, or drive to your next nursing class! Key concepts are highlighted in each video so you can study SMART!
(This video is for educational purpose only. It is not indicated for clinical use.)
Appendicitis
-Inflammation of the appendix
-Often caused by fecal matter trapping fluid and mucus resulting in inflammation and ischemia in the appendix
-When the appendix becomes inflamed or infected, rupture may occur within a matter of hours, leading to peritonitis and sepsis
S/S
-Abdominal pain usually begins near the umbilicus and migrates to the right lower quadrant.
-McBurney's point: located two thirds the distance from the umbilicus to the right hip bone; When pressure is applied over the McBurney’s point and is then quickly released, patients with appendicitis will have severe pain which is indicative of a positive McBurney's sign.
-You may see patients in fetal positions with a side-lying position with abdominal guarding and legs flexed to relieve pain.
-fever, nausea and vomiting, constipation or diarrhea, tachycardia, and tachypnea.
Appendiceal rupture
-Leaking of appendiceal contents into the peritoneal space resulting in peritonitis
-A classic sign of perforated appendix is a sudden relief of pain followed by an increase of pain in the right abdomen with guarding.
-Progressive abdominal rigidity, distention, diminished bowel sounds, hypotension, restlessness and irritability.
Interventions
-NPO for bowel rest
-Administer antibiotics
-Administer IV fluids to prevent dehydration and replete electrolytes as needed
-Monitor for signs of a ruptured appendix and peritonitis (such as change in level of pain)
-Administer pain medications
-Appendectomy (surgical removal of the appendix)
