Pediatric ATI Practice Exam

Which of the following is a manifestation of peritonitis in a child with appendicitis?

1. Fever and chills

2. Abdominal distention

3. Severe muscle rigidity

4. Loss of appetite

The correct answer is: Abdominal distention

In the case of appendicitis, peritonitis can develop as a complication and is associated with the inflammation of the peritoneum, which can manifest in various ways. One prominent indicator of peritonitis is abdominal distention. This occurs because as the inflammation progresses and the abdominal cavity becomes more irritated, it can lead to the accumulation of fluid and gas in the abdomen, causing it to swell. Abdominal distention is a key sign that indicates possible complications in acute abdominal conditions, and in the context of appendicitis, it can suggest that the infection has spread beyond the appendix into the peritoneal cavity. The presence of distention often correlates with increased intra-abdominal pressure and may also indicate the perforation of the appendix, enhancing the urgency for medical intervention. Fever and chills, severe muscle rigidity, and loss of appetite can certainly accompany peritonitis and appendicitis, but they are not as specific to peritonitis as abdominal distention is. Each of these symptoms can arise from various medical conditions, making them less definitive in diagnosing peritonitis in this specific context.