Clinical meaning
Appendicitis occurs when the appendiceal lumen becomes obstructed (by fecalith, lymphoid hyperplasia, or foreign body), leading to bacterial overgrowth, mucosal inflammation, increased intraluminal pressure, and ischemia. Without intervention, the appendix can perforate within 24-72 hours, causing peritonitis. The nurse monitors for classic signs (periumbilical pain migrating to RLQ), maintains NPO status, and reports changes promptly.
Exam relevance
Risk factors: - Age 10-30 (peak incidence) - Male sex (slightly higher risk) - Low-fiber diet - Family history - Fecalith obstruction
Diagnostics: - Monitor vital signs for fever and tachycardia - Report pain migration from periumbilical to RLQ (McBurney's point) - Report rebound tenderness or guarding - Monitor for signs of perforation: sudden pain relief followed by diffuse pain