Appendicitis Flashcards
1
Q
What is appendicitis?
A
Inflammation of the appendix
2
Q
What is the number one thing to worry about with appendicitis?
A
Rupture
3
Q
What are the s/s of appendicitis?
A
- Generalized pain initially
- Rebound tenderness
- N/V (abdomina pain first)
- Anorexia
*Get good history. With appendicitis, abdominal pain comes first, then nausea and vomiting.
4
Q
With appendicitis, where does pain eventually localize?
A
RLQ aka McBurney’s point
5
Q
Appendicitis:
Lab changes/diagnosis
A
- WBC increased
- Ultrasound (enlarged appendix)
- CT
6
Q
Should you give enemas or laxatives with appendicitis?
A
No, worry about rupture
7
Q
What is the treatment for appendicitis?
A
Surgery, mostly done with laparoscope unless perforated.
8
Q
Surgery for appendicitis is laparoscopic unless what?
A
perforated
9
Q
After abdominal surgery for appendicitis, what is the position of choice?
A
Fowlers (reduces pressure on the abdomen and relieves pressure on the suture lines.
