Certified Neuroscience Registered Nurse (CNRN) Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT a late sign of an anastomotic leak?

1. Elevated white blood cells (WBC)

2. Peritonitis

3. Fistula development

4. Rapid weight gain

The correct answer is: Rapid weight gain

Rapid weight gain is not typically a late sign of an anastomotic leak. Instead, it is usually considered an early indicator of fluid retention or other underlying issues. In contrast, anastomotic leaks often present with more pronounced symptoms over time as the condition progresses. Elevated white blood cell count, peritonitis, and fistula development are all associated with later stages of an anastomotic leak. An elevated white blood cell count typically indicates an inflammatory response, while peritonitis is a severe, acute condition caused by the leakage of intestinal contents into the abdominal cavity, which can result from a leak. Fistula development occurs after an anastomotic leak has persisted, leading to abnormal connections between the bowel and other tissues. Thus, those three options reflect complications that arise after the initial problem has occurred, making them late signs of a leak.