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.
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because decreasing the flow rate to 1 L/minute can compromise the client's oxygenation and worsen hypoxia. The client's oxygen saturation level is below the normal range of 95% to 100%.
Choice B Reason: This is correct because placing padding around the cannula tubing can prevent pressure ulcers and skin breakdown caused by friction and irritation from the tubing.
Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because applying lubricant to the cannula tubing can increase the risk of infection and inflammation of the nasal mucosa. Lubricant should be applied sparingly to the nares only if needed.
Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because discontinuing the use of the nasal cannula can endanger the client's life and cause respiratory failure. The client needs supplemental oxygen to maintain adequate oxygenation.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A: Notify the healthcare provider is the correct action because it is the nurse's responsibility to report any medication errors or adverse reactions to the prescriber as soon as possible.
Choice B: Document the event on the chart is not the next action because it should be done after notifying the healthcare provider and completing an incident report.
Choice C: Complete an incident report is not the next action because it should be done after notifying the healthcare provider and before documenting the event on the chart.
Choice D: Inform the nurse on the next shift is not the next action because it should be done after documenting the event on the chart and during handoff.
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