NBCSN Nationally Certified School Nurse Practice Exam

Common signs and symptoms of a liver laceration typically include pain localized to the right upper quadrant, given the liver's anatomical position. Tenderness in this area is often accompanied by guarding, which is an involuntary response to pain where the abdominal muscles become tense when pressure is applied. This reaction is indicative of irritation or injury to the abdominal organs, including the liver.

The presence of right upper quadrant tenderness and guarding aligns with the clinical presentation of liver injury, helping healthcare professionals identify potential internal injuries. Left upper quadrant pain may suggest other types of injuries or conditions not primarily associated with liver damage, while abdominal distention and diarrhea do not specifically correlate with liver laceration. Additionally, lower abdominal pain could indicate pelvic or lower gastrointestinal issues rather than direct liver involvement, and vomiting is a non-specific symptom that requires further assessment to determine its cause.