Pathophysiology
Clinical meaning
Cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder, most commonly caused by gallstone obstruction of the cystic duct. Bile stasis leads to distension, mucosal ischemia, bacterial invasion, and potential perforation. The cardinal presentation is right upper quadrant (RUQ) pain after fatty meals, often radiating to the right scapula (Murphy's sign positive). The nurse monitors pain, vital signs, and dietary intake, reporting changes to the nursing team.