FAU Advanced Health Assessment Practice Test

Cullen's sign refers to the presence of a bluish discoloration around the umbilicus, which is indicative of bleeding within the abdominal cavity. This clinical sign often suggests the presence of hemoperitoneum, which may occur due to various reasons including trauma, ruptured ectopic pregnancy, or pancreatic pathology, among others. Recognizing Cullen's sign is crucial within the context of an advanced health assessment, as it can guide further investigation and management of potential intra-abdominal bleeding.

In contrast, other choices do not pertain to Cullen’s sign: increased intracranial pressure may present differently and does not involve the abdominal region, developmental hip dysplasia relates to a condition affecting the hip joint in infants, and carpal tunnel syndrome involves compression of the median nerve at the wrist, unrelated to signs of internal bleeding. This distinction reinforces the significance of Cullen's sign in identifying serious abdominal conditions.