What findings during a gastrointestinal assessment may alert a nurse to the possibility of appendicitis?

Abdominal pain in the right lower quadrant is a classic finding that may indicate the presence of appendicitis. The appendix is located in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen, and when it becomes inflamed, patients typically experience sharp or cramping pain in this area. This pain may often begin near the belly button and then migrate to the right lower quadrant. Identifying this specific location of pain is crucial for the assessment of appendicitis and informs the nurse's clinical judgment regarding the need for further evaluation and intervention, such as imaging studies or surgical consultation.

Other options do not demonstrate the hallmark signs associated with appendicitis. For instance, bradycardia and high blood pressure are not typical presentations in appendicitis cases. Likewise, jaundice and fever can suggest different conditions, such as liver disease or infection, but are not specific to appendicitis. Severe bloating without pain might indicate a different gastrointestinal issue rather than appendicitis, which usually presents with pain as a major symptom.