Paramedic National Registry Practice

What is reflex guarding associated with?

1. Pain to parietal peritoneum

2. Visceral pain

3. Referred pain from the abdomen

4. Spinal injury responses

The correct answer is: Pain to parietal peritoneum

Reflex guarding is a physiological response that typically occurs when there is irritation or injury to the parietal peritoneum, a layer of tissue that lines the abdominal cavity. This response is characterized by involuntary muscle tensing or rigidity in the abdominal wall, which is the body's way of protecting areas that may be experiencing pain or inflammation. This type of guarding is often observed in individuals with acute abdominal conditions, where the sensory nerves that innervate the parietal peritoneum transmit pain signals resulting in this reflexive muscle contraction. Understanding this response is crucial for paramedics and healthcare providers, as it can be indicative of underlying issues such as appendicitis, peritonitis, or other forms of abdominal trauma. Recognizing and assessing the presence of reflex guarding can provide vital clues about the patient's condition and the need for further diagnostic evaluation or interventions.