What is the difference between guarding and rigidity during abdominal palpation?

Guarding is a voluntary contraction of the abdominal wall muscles, often due to fear, anxiety, or cold hands, while rigidity is an involuntary contraction triggered by peritoneal inflammation and cannot be controlled by the patient.

During abdominal palpation, the nurse must distinguish between guarding and rigidity. Guarding is a voluntary contraction of the abdominal wall musculature, typically caused by factors such as fear, anxiety, or the touch of cold hands. Because it is voluntary, the patient can relax the muscles with reassurance and proper technique. Rigidity, in contrast, is an involuntary contraction of the abdominal musculature that occurs as a reflex response to peritoneal inflammation. The patient cannot consciously control this contraction, making it a more significant clinical sign that suggests peritoneal irritation.