When evaluating a client's rectal bleeding, which findings should the nurse document?
Number of blood clots expelled with each stool.
Evidence of internal hemorrhoids.
Unique odor noted with gastrointestinal bleeding.
Color characteristics of each stool.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Number of blood clots expelled with each stool:
While the number of blood clots expelled with each stool may be relevant in assessing the severity of bleeding, it does not provide as much information about the potential underlying causes of bleeding as documenting the color characteristics of the stool does. Therefore, although it may be noted, it is not the most crucial aspect to document initially.
B. Evidence of internal hemorrhoids:
Documenting evidence of internal hemorrhoids is important in assessing rectal bleeding, but it is not as fundamental as documenting the color characteristics of the stool. Internal hemorrhoids can be one potential cause of rectal bleeding, but other more serious conditions may also cause bleeding, so a comprehensive assessment of the stool is necessary.
C. Unique odor noted with gastrointestinal bleeding:
While gastrointestinal bleeding may have a distinct odor, documenting this alone does not provide as much diagnostic information as describing the color characteristics of the stool. Documenting odor may be important in some cases, but it is not as critical as documenting the color of the stool, which can help identify potential causes of bleeding.
D. Color characteristics of each stool:
When evaluating rectal bleeding, documenting the color characteristics of each stool is crucial. Different colors of stool can indicate various underlying causes of bleeding. Bright red blood typically suggests lower gastrointestinal bleeding, while darker, tarry stools (melena) may indicate bleeding higher in the gastrointestinal tract. Describing the color, consistency, and presence of any abnormal substances in the stool helps healthcare providers assess the severity and potential causes of the bleeding.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Answer: B. Opening a bar soap package.
Rationale:
A) Telephoning a family member:
Using a telephone is considered an instrumental activity of daily living (IADL), which involves more complex tasks required for independent living, such as managing communication. While important, it does not directly assess the physical and motor skills required for basic self-care.
B) Opening a bar soap package:
Opening a bar soap package involves fine motor skills and hand coordination, which are necessary for performing basic activities of daily living (ADLs). ADLs refer to essential self-care tasks like bathing, dressing, and grooming. Being able to open soap indicates the client has the dexterity needed for personal hygiene.
C) Sorting a collection of socks:
Sorting socks is more cognitive than motor-oriented, and it assesses organization skills, which are more aligned with IADLs rather than ADLs. It does not specifically evaluate the client’s ability to perform tasks related to basic self-care.
D) Reading a short paragraph:
Reading a paragraph evaluates literacy or cognitive function but is not directly related to performing ADLs. ADLs focus on physical activities necessary for daily living, such as dressing, eating, or bathing.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Face is flushed and diaphoretic:
While flushing and diaphoresis can indicate fever, anxiety, or other conditions, they do not typically require immediate intervention unless associated with other severe symptoms.
B) Eyelids are matted and crusted:
Matted and crusted eyelids may indicate an eye infection, such as conjunctivitis, which requires treatment but not immediate emergency intervention.
C) Cornea are jaundiced:
Jaundiced corneas (scleral icterus) suggest elevated bilirubin levels and possible liver dysfunction. This finding requires prompt evaluation but is not typically an emergency requiring immediate intervention.
D) Oral mucosa is cyanotic:
Cyanosis of the oral mucosa indicates a lack of oxygen in the blood and is a sign of hypoxemia or respiratory distress. This is a critical finding that requires immediate intervention to address potential life-threatening respiratory or cardiovascular issues.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
