The nurse is caring for a patient with suspected diverticulitis. The nurse would be most prudent in questioning which of the following diagnostic tests ordered? A. Colonoscopy B. Barium enema C. Complete blood count D. Computed tomography (CT) scan

Diverticulitis is a digestive disease characterized by the inflammation of small pouches (diverticula) in the large intestine. It can cause severe abdominal pain, fever, and changes in bowel movements. To diagnose this condition, healthcare providers use different tests to examine the colon and rule out other potential causes of the patient's symptoms.

A. Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy is a procedure where a thin, flexible tube with a camera at the end (colonoscope) is inserted into the patient's rectum to examine the lining of their colon. It is useful in diagnosing diverticulitis, but it may be risky to perform during an acute episode, as it can increase the risk of perforation. B. Barium enema: A barium enema is a diagnostic test that involves filling the colon with a contrast material (barium) to visualize the intestinal lining through X-ray images. This test can help identify diverticula and other abnormalities but carries a similar risk of perforation as a colonoscopy. C. Complete blood count (CBC): A complete blood count is a blood test that measures the number of different types of blood cells, including white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. Elevated white blood cell levels can indicate inflammation or infection, which may suggest diverticulitis. This test is non-invasive and has no risks associated with it. D. Computed tomography (CT) scan: A CT scan is an imaging method that uses X-rays and computer processing to generate detailed cross-sectional images of the body's internal structures. A CT scan can help identify signs of diverticulitis, such as inflammation around the diverticula and abscesses. This test is non-invasive and has relatively low risks.

Comparing the various diagnostic tests, it is evident that colonoscopy (option A) and barium enema (option B) carry a heavier risk of perforation, especially during an acute episode of diverticulitis. Therefore, it would be prudent for a nurse to question these tests over the non-invasive options (options C and D), which have fewer potential complications. The diagnostic test that would be most prudent in questioning is A. Colonoscopy, due to the higher possibility of causing perforation during an acute episode of diverticulitis.