Which abdominal finding indicates internal bleeding?

• A. Rigid abdomen
• B. Soft abdomen
• C. Abdominal distension with no movement
• D. Non-tender abdomen

Answer: (A)

A rigid abdomen reflects peritoneal irritation from blood in the abdominal cavity. When bleeding occurs inside the abdomen, the peritoneum is irritated and the abdominal muscles contract reflexively to protect the area, giving a board-like, stiff feel. This sign is a strong indicator of internal hemorrhage and prompts urgent assessment and management.

A soft or non-tender abdomen suggests little or no peritoneal irritation, while distension without rigidity can occur for other reasons such as gas, obstruction, or mass and does not point as specifically to active intra-abdominal bleeding.