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 lifting and locking the side rails in place is a standard safety measure for all clients, but it does not address the specific risk of respiratory depression caused by morphine and OSA.
Choice B Reason: This is correct because applying the client's positive airway pressure device can help maintain airway patency and prevent hypoxia and hypercapnia, which are common complications of OSA and opioid use.
Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because elevating the head of the bed to a 45-degree angle can help reduce chest pain and dyspnea, but it does not prevent airway obstruction or respiratory depression.
Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because removing dentures or other oral appliances can help prevent aspiration, but it does not affect the client's breathing pattern or oxygenation.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason: This is correct because beginning with questions that are less sensitive in nature can help establish rapport and trust with the client, and make the client more comfortable and willing to disclose personal information.
Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because asking questions in a vague, non-specific format can confuse the client and lead to inaccurate or incomplete data. The nurse should ask clear, direct, and open-ended questions that elicit relevant information.
Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because getting the most difficult questions over with first can make the client feel anxious, embarrassed, or defensive, and discourage further communication. The nurse should build up to the more sensitive questions gradually and respectfully.
Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because sharing personal values to put the client at ease can be inappropriate and unprofessional, as it may impose the nurse's beliefs or opinions on the client or create bias or judgment. The nurse should maintain a neutral and objective attitude and respect the client's values.
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