While preparing to obtain a stool specimen for occult blood, the nurse observes that the client's feces is soft, solid, and light brown.
Which action should the nurse implement?

Wait to obtain the specimen until observable blood is present.

Withhold specimen collection until tarry black stool is observed.

Obtain the specimen from the client's current bowel movement.

Contact the healthcare provider before obtaining the specimen.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because occult blood is not visible to the naked eye. Waiting for observable blood may delay diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal bleeding.

Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because tarry black stool indicates upper gastrointestinal bleeding, which may not be related to the client's condition. Occult blood can be present in any color of stool.

Choice C Reason: This is correct because the nurse should obtain the specimen from the client's current bowel movement, regardless of its color or consistency. The test for occult blood detects hemoglobin in the stool, which may indicate bleeding anywhere along the gastrointestinal tract.

Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because contacting the healthcare provider before obtaining the specimen is unnecessary and may waste time. The nurse should follow the protocol for stool specimen collection and report any abnormal findings to the provider.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because a sputum specimen should be placed in a sealed container and labeled with the client's name, date, and time before it is removed from the room. The container should be transported to the laboratory in a plastic bag.

Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because bed linens should be placed in a leak-proof laundry bag and handled with minimal agitation before they are removed from the room. The laundry bag should be closed securely and transported to the laundry facility.

Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because the nurse's stethoscope should be cleaned and disinfected with an alcohol wipe or a germicidal solution before it is removed from the room. The stethoscope should not be shared with other clients or staff.

Choice D Reason: This is correct because paper mask and gown are disposable items that are contaminated with the client's respiratory secretions and body fluids. They should be placed in a designated biohazard bag and disposed of properly before they are removed from the room.

A. Explain that alternative treatment options may be helpful. B. Encourage the wife to share her feelings. C. Offer reassurance that she is not alone. D. Remind her that her husband may still live a long time.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because explaining that alternative treatment options may be helpful can be insensitive and unrealistic, as it may raise false hopes or imply that the husband's condition is not serious.

Choice B Reason: This is correct because encouraging the wife to share her feelings can help her cope with her grief and express her emotions in a supportive environment. The nurse should use active listening and empathic responses.

Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because offering reassurance that she is not alone can be dismissive and invalidating, as it may minimize her feelings or imply that she should not feel lonely.

Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because reminding her that her husband may still live a long time can be dishonest and inappropriate, as it may contradict the medical prognosis or imply that she should not prepare for his death.

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While preparing to obtain a stool specimen for occult blood, the nurse observes that the client's feces is soft, solid, and light brown. Which action should the nurse implement?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client is admitted with pneumonia and has a recent history of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The client is placed in isolation. While caring for the client, which item should the nurse place in a designated biohazard bag before it is removed from the room?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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While preparing to obtain a stool specimen for occult blood, the nurse observes that the client's feces is soft, solid, and light brown.
Which action should the nurse implement?