A stat abdominal x-ray reveals free air and a large loculated fluid collection presumed to...

Free air on abdominal x-rayindicatesbowel perforation, andloculated fluidsuggests hemoperitoneum or intra-abdominal bleeding. This is asurgical emergency, and the child requiresimmediate operative interventionto prevent further deterioration.

“Free intraperitoneal air and fluid suggest perforation and hemorrhage, which require emergent surgical exploration and correction to prevent peritonitis and shock.”

(Referenced from CCRN Pediatric – Direct Care: Gastrointestinal, Surgical Emergencies and Acute Abdomen)