A nurse is caring for a client who has a prescription for a stool guaiac test. The client asks the nurse about the purpose of the test. The nurse should respond by stating that the stool guaiac is testing for which of the following findings in the client's feces?
Blood
Parasites
Bacteria
Fat
The Correct Answer is A
The purpose of the stool guaiac test, also known as the fecal occult blood test (FOBT), is to identify the presence of hidden or occult blood in the stool. This test is commonly performed to screen for gastrointestinal bleeding, which can indicate various conditions such as colorectal cancer, ulcers, polyps, or other sources of bleeding in the digestive tract.
The other options mentioned are not specifically detected by the stool guaiac test:
Parasites: The stool guaiac test does not directly detect parasites in the feces. Parasite testing requires a different type of analysis, such as microscopic examination or specialized laboratory tests.
Bacteria: The stool guaiac test does not specifically detect bacteria in the feces. If a bacterial infection is suspected, other diagnostic tests such as stool culture or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) may be ordered.
Fat: The stool guaiac test is not designed to detect fat in the feces. If there is a concern about fat malabsorption, other tests such as fecal fat analysis or Sudan stain may be used.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Furosemide is a loop diuretic commonly prescribed for conditions such as hypertension and edema. One of the side effects of furosemide is the increased excretion of potassium in the urine, which can lead to low potassium levels in the body, known as hypokalemia. The other medications mentioned do not typically place the client at risk for hypokalemia: Acyclovir 400 mg PO twice daily: Acyclovir is an antiviral medication used to treat viral infections, such as herpes. It does not have a direct effect on potassium levels. Cimetidine 300 mg PO four times per day: Cimetidine is a histamine H2 receptor antagonist commonly used to reduce stomach acid production. It does not have a direct effect on potassium levels.
Meloxicam 5 mg PO once daily: Meloxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for pain relief. It does not have a direct effect on potassium levels.
Correct Answer is ["A","D"]
Explanation
From the given statements, the nurse can identify the following statements as indicating the effectiveness of cimetidine treatment:
"I don't have as much heartburn after I eat anymore.": Cimetidine is a histamine-2 receptor antagonist commonly used to reduce stomach acid production. Decreased heartburn after eating suggests that the medication has been effective in reducing excessive acid production and relieving heartburn symptoms.
"I can sleep while lying flat again.": Cimetidine can help alleviate symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) by reducing stomach acid. Improved ability to sleep while lying flat suggests that the medication has successfully reduced acid reflux and related symptoms.
The following statements do not directly indicate the effectiveness of cimetidine treatment: ● "I noticed that I have had less urge to smoke lately."
● "I occasionally have stomach pain and dark stools."
● "I have not been as dizzy as I was before."
These statements may be unrelated to the effects of cimetidine or may require further assessment to determine their significance. It's important for the nurse to address any concerns or symptoms mentioned by the client and evaluate their overall response to the medication
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