A nurse is collecting a sputum specimen from a client for culture and sensitivity. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Collect 2 ml of sputum in an emesis basin
Instruct the client to rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash prior to specimen collection
Swab the oropharynx with a sterile swab
Refrigerate the specimen until the time of transport to the laboratory
The Correct Answer is D
Answer: (D) Refrigerate the specimen until the time of transport to the laboratory
Rationale:
A) Collect 2 ml of sputum in an emesis basin: While it is important to collect an adequate volume of sputum, using an emesis basin is inappropriate for collecting a specimen for culture and sensitivity. Sputum must be collected in a sterile container to avoid contamination, ensuring the accuracy of the culture results.
B) Instruct the client to rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash prior to specimen collection: Using an antiseptic mouthwash before collecting a sputum specimen is not recommended, as it could contaminate the sample with antiseptic agents, potentially affecting the growth of microorganisms in the culture. The client should rinse with plain water instead.
C) Swab the oropharynx with a sterile swab: Swabbing the oropharynx is more appropriate for collecting a throat culture rather than a sputum specimen. Sputum collection requires the client to expectorate mucus from the lower respiratory tract, not from the oropharynx, to obtain an accurate sample for culture and sensitivity.
D) Refrigerate the specimen until the time of transport to the laboratory: Refrigerating the sputum specimen is crucial to preserve the integrity of the sample and inhibit the growth of contaminants before it is transported to the laboratory. This action helps ensure that the results of the culture and sensitivity test are accurate.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The nurse should identify that caring for a client who has a new onset of chest pain is outside the scope of practice for an LPN. This is a complex and potentially life-threatening situation that requires the assessment and intervention of a registered nurse (RN) or other advanced practice provider.
b) Caring for a client who has a tracheostomy is within the scope of practice for an LPN.
c) Caring for a client who is receiving enteral feedings is within the scope of practice for an LPN.
d) Caring for a client who has urinary retention is within the scope of practice for an LPN.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Chronic constipation is a common finding in clients with hemorrhoids. Constipation can increase pressure on the veins in the rectum and anus, leading to the development of hemorrhoids.
The other options are not correct because:
b) Excessive flatulence is not mentioned as a common finding in clients with hemorrhoids.
c) Frequent stools are not mentioned as a common finding in clients with hemorrhoids.
d) Fecal incontinence is not mentioned as a common finding in clients with hemorrhoids.

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