Which finding indicates peritoneal irritation during abdominal assessment?

• A. Abdominal distention
• B. Abdominal rigidity
• C. Hyperactive bowel sounds
• D. No tenderness

Answer: (B)

Peritoneal irritation triggers an involuntary protective response in the abdominal wall, causing it to become rigid when palpated. This board-like rigidity is a classic and reliable sign that the peritoneum is inflamed. Abdominal distention can occur from gas, fluid, or obstruction but isn’t specific to peritoneal irritation; hyperactive bowel sounds usually reflect increased motility from other conditions, and a lack of tenderness would not indicate irritation. So, the rigid abdomen is the best indicator of peritoneal irritation.