A client is experiencing abdominal pain. What assessments should the n

A client is experiencing abdominal pain. What assessments should the nurse perform to assess this complaint?

1. Inspect the abdomen.
2. Auscultate the abdomen.
3. Palpate the abdomen.
4. Assess vital signs.
5. Assess peripheral pulses.

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 1, 2, 3, 4
Rationale 1: The nurse should inspect the client’s abdomen.
Rationale 2: The nurse should auscultate the abdomen.
Rationale 3: The nurse should auscultate the abdomen.
Rationale 4: The nurse should assess vital signs.
Rationale 5: Although peripheral pulses may be palpated, this is not specific to a client with abdominal pain.