American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Practice Test

Psoas sign is indicative of what abdominal condition?

1. Cholecystitis

2. Appendicitis

3. Pancreatitis

4. Diverticulitis

The correct answer is: Appendicitis

The Psoas sign is a clinical indicator specifically associated with appendicitis. This sign is elicited when there is irritation of the psoas muscle due to inflammation of adjacent structures, such as the appendix. When a healthcare provider extends the patient's right leg at the hip while the patient lies on their left side, any increase in pain can suggest that the appendix is inflamed or that there is an issue in that area, aligning with the typical presentation of appendicitis. In contrast, conditions like cholecystitis, pancreatitis, and diverticulitis are not specifically indicated by the Psoas sign. Cholecystitis often presents with Murphy's sign, pancreatitis can show signs of guarding and abdominal tenderness, and diverticulitis primarily presents with localized left lower quadrant pain without the characteristic psoas muscle involvement that accompanies appendiceal inflammation. Thus, the correct association of the Psoas sign with appendicitis highlights its value as a diagnostic tool in assessing suspected cases of this condition.