When performing an abdominal assessment, what finding would strongly suggest an injury?

An abdominal assessment that reveals distension and tenderness on palpation is a strong indicator of possible injury or underlying pathology. Distension can point to various issues, such as internal bleeding or the accumulation of fluids, which could signify a severe condition requiring urgent attention. The presence of tenderness upon palpation further suggests irritation of the peritoneum, possibly due to inflammation or injury, making it a significant finding in assessing abdominal trauma.

Normal bowel sounds would indicate that the gastrointestinal tract is functioning adequately, which is reassuring rather than indicative of injury. A palpable kidney, while potentially abnormal, may not necessarily suggest a severe injury, as it could result from anatomical variations or other benign causes. Asymmetry of the abdomen can suggest a problem, but it is not as definitive for injury as the combination of distension and tenderness, which directly points toward an acute issue that may require immediate intervention.