What nursing intervention is required for a patient with an abdominal aortic aneurysm?

What nursing intervention is required for a patient with an abdominal aortic aneurysm?

• A. Encourage deep palpation of the abdomen.
• B. Monitor for severe abdominal pain and avoid deep palpation of the abdomen.
• C. Begin aggressive diuresis.
• D. Administer routine laxatives.

Answer: (B)

Abdominal aortic aneurysm patients are at real risk of rupture, and the wall of the aneurysm is fragile. Manipulating the abdomen too much, especially with deep palpation, can increase stress on the aneurysm and trigger rupture. So the nursing approach focuses on avoiding deep abdominal palpation and watching closely for warning signs. The most important cue is sudden, severe abdominal or back pain, possibly with changes in vital signs like rapid pulse or low blood pressure, which would signal rupture and require immediate medical action. Diuresis and laxatives don’t address the risk and could worsen the situation by affecting fluid status or causing straining.

Abdominal aortic aneurysm patients are at real risk of rupture, and the wall of the aneurysm is fragile. Manipulating the abdomen too much, especially with deep palpation, can increase stress on the aneurysm and trigger rupture. So the nursing approach focuses on avoiding deep abdominal palpation and watching closely for warning signs. The most important cue is sudden, severe abdominal or back pain, possibly with changes in vital signs like rapid pulse or low blood pressure, which would signal rupture and require immediate medical action. Diuresis and laxatives don’t address the risk and could worsen the situation by affecting fluid status or causing straining.