Peritonitis or perforation
NCLEX-RN glossary · Physiological Adaptation
Definition
A surgical emergency resulting from the loss of gastrointestinal wall integrity, leading to the leakage of contents into the sterile peritoneal space.
Peritonitis or perforation in plain English
It is characterized by severe pain and a rigid, board-like abdomen and requires immediate surgical preparation to prevent septic shock and death. A common mistake is focusing on opioid-based pain relief while failing to prioritize the essential steps for emergency surgical intervention.
Sign up free: all 276 NCLEX-RN terms as flashcards, plus practice questions with full explanations →
Related NCLEX-RN terms
NCLEX-RN practice questions · NCLEX-RN flashcards · NCLEX-RN study guide