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

What is a typical symptom of cholelithiasis?

1. Constant abdominal pain

2. Colicky pain

3. Jaundice

4. Fever

The correct answer is: Colicky pain

Colicky pain is a hallmark symptom of cholelithiasis, which refers to the presence of gallstones in the gallbladder. The term "colicky" describes a type of pain that comes and goes, often characterized by its sudden onset and intensity. This pain is usually located in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen and may radiate to the shoulder or back. It is often triggered by the presence of gallstones obstructing the bile ducts, particularly when the gallbladder contracts in response to eating, especially high-fat meals. In contrast, constant abdominal pain, jaundice, and fever can also be associated with gallbladder issues but are not typical symptoms of cholelithiasis itself. Constant abdominal pain may suggest complications such as cholecystitis, jaundice could indicate bile duct obstruction, and fever might point to an infection or inflammation but are not defining features of the presence of gallstones. Thus, colicky pain accurately captures the specific and characteristic symptom associated with cholelithiasis.