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
Peptic ulcer disease is characterized by open sores that develop on the lining of the stomach, small intestine, or esophagus. The symptoms and pain associated with peptic ulcer disease can
vary, but certain patterns are commonly observed: "The pain is worse after I eat a meal high in fat": This statement aligns with the typical symptom of peptic ulcer disease. The presence of fat in the stomach triggers the release of certain hormones and substances that stimulate gastric acid secretion. This increased acid production can exacerbate the pain experienced by individuals with peptic ulcers.
"I feel so much better after eating": Feeling relief after eating is not characteristic of peptic ulcer disease. In fact, individuals with peptic ulcers may experience pain or discomfort after eating especially those with gastric ulcers.
"The pain radiates down to my lower back": Lower back pain is not a common symptom associated specifically with peptic ulcer disease. Radiating pain to the back is more commonly associated with conditions like pancreatitis or kidney issues.
"My pain is relieved by having a bowel movement": Pain relief with bowel movements is not a typical symptom of peptic ulcer disease. It may be more indicative of conditions like irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease.
Correct Answer is ["C","D"]
Explanation
When reinforcing teaching with a client who has a duodenal ulcer and a new prescription for sucralfate, the nurse should include the following instructions:
"Take the medication on an empty stomach.": Sucralfate is most effective when taken on an empty stomach, usually 1 hour before meals and at bedtime. Taking it with food or other medications may reduce its effectiveness.
"Remain upright for 30 minutes after taking this medication.": To enhance the efficacy of sucralfate, it is important to remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication. This helps to prevent the medication from being washed away by stomach acid and allows it to form a protective coating over the ulcer.
The following statements are incorrect or not applicable:
"Stop taking this medication if you develop constipation.": Constipation is a common side effect of sucralfate. However, abruptly stopping the medication is not necessary if constipation occurs. The nurse should instruct the client to increase fluid intake, consume a high-fiber diet, and discuss any concerns with the healthcare provider. If constipation becomes severe or persists, the healthcare provider can provide further guidance on managing this side effect.
"Take an antacid at the same time you take this medication.": Sucralfate can interact with antacids and other medications, reducing its effectiveness. It is recommended to take sucralfate at least 2 hours before or after taking antacids or other medications to avoid interference with its absorption.
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