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 C

Explanation

Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because removing needle before discarding used syringes may expose the client or others to accidental needlestick injuries. The needle and syringe should be disposed of as a single unit in a puncture-resistant container.

Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because wearing gloves to dispose of the needle and syringe is not necessary if the client does not have contact with blood or body fluids. Gloves are not a substitute for hand hygiene.

Choice C Reason: This is correct because washing hands before handling the needle and syringe reduces the risk of infection and contamination. Hand hygiene is the most important measure to prevent transmission of microorganisms.

Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because donning a face mask before administering the medication is not required unless the medication is aerosolized or nebulized. A face mask does not protect against needlestick injuries or bloodborne pathogens.

A. Limitations to range of motion. B. Muscle strength and tone. C. Degree of neurosensory impairment. D. Presence of rebound phenomenon.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A: Limitations to range of motion are not directly related to the application of a heating pad. A heating pad may help reduce pain and stiffness, but it does not affect the range of motion itself.

Choice B: Muscle strength and tone are also not directly related to the application of a heating pad. A heating pad may relax tense muscles, but it does not affect the strength or tone of the muscles.

Choice C: Degree of neurosensory impairment is the most important assessment for the nurse to perform prior to the application of a heating pad. A heating pad can cause burns or tissue damage if the patient has impaired sensation and cannot feel the heat or pain. The nurse should check the patient's ability to perceive temperature, pressure, and pain before applying a heating pad.

Choice D: Presence of rebound phenomenon is not relevant to the application of a heating pad. Rebound phenomenon refers to the worsening of symptoms after discontinuing a medication or treatment. A heating pad does not cause rebound phenomenon.

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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

The nurse is teaching a client about use of the syringes and needles for home administration of medications. Which action by the client indicates an understanding of standard precautions?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Which assessment is most important for the nurse to perform prior to the application of a heating pad?

Correct Answer is C

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?