🔍 Key Concepts

• Appendicitis and ruptured appendix often cause signs of serious internal infection or peritonitis • Pain and muscle reaction in the abdominal area are key clues • Some symptoms listed relate more to shock or other conditions than to a localized abdominal emergency

💭 Think About

• Which option best reflects a serious irritation/inflammation of the entire abdominal cavity rather than a general body response like sweating or pupil changes? • Think about what happens to the abdominal muscles when the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) is severely irritated. • Which symptoms would you expect to see first in someone whose appendix has ruptured—localized abdominal guarding, or changes like urination and pupil size?

✅ Before You Answer

• Compare which choice involves the abdomen itself rather than general body reactions. • Ask yourself which symptoms are typical of peritonitis (infection inside the abdomen). • Eliminate any choice that mostly describes unrelated systems (eyes, urinary tract) rather than a severe abdominal emergency.