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 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.

A. "Would you like to talk for a little while?" B. "I can see that you are feeling lonely." C. "Tell me about the visit with your significant other." D. "What did you enjoy about your visit tonight?"

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A Reason: This is correct because this response invites the client to express her feelings and thoughts without imposing any assumptions or judgments. It also conveys empathy and respect for the client's autonomy.

Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because this response makes an inference about the client's emotional state without validating it with her. It also may sound patronizing or pitying, which can hinder rapport.

Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because this response may be perceived as intrusive or prying, especially if the client is not ready or willing to share details about her personal relationship. It also may trigger negative emotions or memories that can worsen her mood.

Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because this response may be seen as superficial or irrelevant, especially if the client did not enjoy her visit or had a conflict with her significant other. It also may imply that the nurse is avoiding or dismissing the client's current feelings.

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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

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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?