When evaluating a client’s rectal bleeding, which findings should the nurse document?
Number of blood clots expelled with each stool.
Unique odor noted with gastrointestinal bleeding.
Color characteristics of each stool.
Evidence of internal hemorrhoids.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Number of blood clots expelled with each stool. This is not the most comprehensive approach as it focuses solely on clots without addressing other key aspects, such as stool color or consistency. Clots are also not always present with rectal bleeding.
B. Unique odor noted with gastrointestinal bleeding. While gastrointestinal bleeding, particularly upper GI bleeding, can produce a distinct odor, odor is subjective and not a reliable or standard assessment criterion to document.
C. Color characteristics of each stool. Stool color provides critical information about the source of the bleeding. For example, bright red blood (hematochezia) indicates lower GI bleeding, while black, tarry stools (melena) suggest upper GI bleeding. Documenting stool color helps in identifying the location and nature of the bleeding.
D. Evidence of internal hemorrhoids. While hemorrhoids are a common cause of rectal bleeding, the nurse cannot confirm the presence of internal hemorrhoids without diagnostic tools like anoscopy or sigmoidoscopy. The nurse should focus on documenting observable and measurable findings.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Tenderness upon palpation of the thoracic region is an abnormal finding and may indicate inflammation, infection, or other pathological conditions.
Choice B rationale
A thrill is a palpable vibration over the chest wall, often associated with turbulent blood flow due to cardiac abnormalities. It is not a normal finding in the thoracic region.
Choice C rationale
Non-tenderness upon palpation of the thoracic region is a normal finding, indicating the absence of inflammation, infection, or other abnormalities.
Choice D rationale
Crepitus is a crackling or popping sensation felt under the skin, often due to the presence of air in the subcutaneous tissue. It is not a normal finding and may indicate conditions such as pneumothorax or subcutaneous emphysema.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Applying warm blankets to both feet is not the appropriate action when unable to palpate pedal pulses. This action does not address the underlying issue of assessing blood flow.
Choice B rationale
Notifying the healthcare provider is premature without first attempting to locate the pulses using a Doppler ultrasonic stethoscope.
Choice C rationale
Using a Doppler ultrasonic stethoscope is the correct action. This device helps detect and amplify blood flow, allowing the nurse to assess the pulses even if they cannot be palpated manually.
Choice D rationale
Palpating pulse points with legs dependent is not the most effective method to locate non- palpable pulses. Using a Doppler ultrasonic stethoscope is more reliable.
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.
