Question

The nurse is caring for a client with cholecystitis. Which clinical manifestation would the nurse expect the client to exhibit? A. Hiccups B. Dysphagia C. Fever D. Bradycardia

Short answer

Answer: C. Fever

Step-by-step solution

Understand cholecystitis symptoms

Cholecystitis, an inflammation of the gallbladder, can cause various symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). It's essential to recognize these symptoms to select the appropriate manifestation.

Evaluate each option based on cholecystitis symptoms

Now that we know some common symptoms of cholecystitis, let's evaluate each option given: A. Hiccups: Although hiccups could be associated with various conditions, they are not a primary symptom of cholecystitis. B. Dysphagia: Dysphagia refers to difficulty swallowing. This symptom is not common in cholecystitis, and hence, it is not an appropriate option. C. Fever: A fever is a common symptom of cholecystitis since it is an inflammatory condition. This option might be the correct answer. D. Bradycardia: Bradycardia means a slower-than-normal heart rate. This symptom is not typically associated with cholecystitis; therefore, it is not an appropriate choice.

Choose the most appropriate clinical manifestation

Based on our evaluation of each option, the most appropriate clinical manifestation of cholecystitis in this case is fever. Therefore, the correct answer is option C.

Key concepts

NCLEX-RN

The NCLEX-RN is an essential exam for nursing graduates to become licensed as registered nurses. It assesses the knowledge, skills, and abilities vital for entry-level nursing practice. This exam covers various areas, including health promotion, physiological integrity, and safe care environments.
The importance of understanding medical conditions like cholecystitis cannot be overstated when preparing for the NCLEX-RN. Questions on the exam might require the identification of symptoms or clinical manifestations of various diseases, such as knowing that fever is a common symptom of cholecystitis. 
By grasping these concepts, nurses can better prepare themselves for the types of questions they will face and, more importantly, learn to provide high-quality patient care. Studying these conditions helps nurses respond appropriately in real-life clinical settings, ensuring patient safety and effective treatment.

Nursing Symptoms

In the context of nursing, understanding symptoms is crucial for accurate diagnosis and patient care. Cholecystitis, for example, presents a distinctive set of symptoms that nurses need to be aware of:

• Abdominal pain, especially in the upper right quadrant
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever
• Jaundice, or yellowing of the skin and eyes

By recognizing these symptoms, nurses can quickly identify cholecystitis and take appropriate action. This knowledge allows them to differentiate between initial signs of various conditions and focus on the most likely diagnosis.
Additionally, effective nursing relies on the ability to communicate findings with the healthcare team. It's important for nurses to describe symptoms clearly and accurately to report any changes in the patient's condition.

Clinical Manifestations

Clinical manifestations are the visible or measurable signs of a medical condition, and they are critical for diagnosis and treatment. For cholecystitis, the clinical manifestations commonly seen include:

• Severe pain in the right upper abdomen, which may radiate to the right shoulder
• Nausea and vomiting following a heavy meal
• Fever as a result of inflammation
• Jaundice due to bilirubin build-up

Understanding these manifestations helps nurses assess the severity of the condition and prioritize patient care. Recognizing patterns such as the timing of pain and the presence of fever can guide interventions and treatment options.Â
Furthermore, identifying these manifestations early can make a significant difference in outcomes, preventing potential complications like gallbladder rupture.

Inflammation Symptoms

Inflammation is a common underlying cause of many conditions, including cholecystitis. The symptoms of inflammation can vary but often include:

• Pain, heat, and redness in the affected area
• Swelling
• Fever

In cholecystitis, inflammation of the gallbladder leads to symptoms such as abdominal pain and fever. Recognizing these symptoms as part of an inflammatory process helps with correct identification and treatment.
It's also important to understand the body's response to inflammation, which includes increased blood flow and immune cell activation. In the context of nursing, knowing these inflammatory symptoms allows for prompt and effective care, helping to alleviate pain and prevent further injury to the patient.