A nurse is caring for a client who has a prescription for a stool guaiac test. The client asks the nurse about the purpose of the test. The nurse should respond by stating that the stool guaiac is testing for which of the following findings in the client's feces?
Blood
Parasites
Bacteria
Fat
The Correct Answer is A
The purpose of the stool guaiac test, also known as the fecal occult blood test (FOBT), is to identify the presence of hidden or occult blood in the stool. This test is commonly performed to screen for gastrointestinal bleeding, which can indicate various conditions such as colorectal cancer, ulcers, polyps, or other sources of bleeding in the digestive tract.
The other options mentioned are not specifically detected by the stool guaiac test:
Parasites: The stool guaiac test does not directly detect parasites in the feces. Parasite testing requires a different type of analysis, such as microscopic examination or specialized laboratory tests.
Bacteria: The stool guaiac test does not specifically detect bacteria in the feces. If a bacterial infection is suspected, other diagnostic tests such as stool culture or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) may be ordered.
Fat: The stool guaiac test is not designed to detect fat in the feces. If there is a concern about fat malabsorption, other tests such as fecal fat analysis or Sudan stain may be used.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Sucralfate works by forming a protective barrier or coating over the surface of the ulcer. It adheres to the ulcer site and provides a physical barrier that protects the ulcer from gastric acid, pepsin, and bile salts. This protective barrier allows the ulcer to heal by preventing further damage and irritation from the stomach acid.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Elevating the head of the bed to a semi-Fowler's or high Fowler's position helps prevent aspiration during the feeding. This position facilitates proper digestion and reduces the risk of
regurgitation or reflux. It allows gravity to assist in keeping the feeding in the stomach and reduces the likelihood of complications.
The other actions mentioned are also important steps in the process but should be performed after elevating the head of the bed:
Measure stomach contents: This step is usually done before administering any enteral feeding to check for the presence of residual gastric contents. It helps determine if the client is tolerating previous feedings and guides adjustments in the feeding volume or rate if needed.
Return gastric content into the gastrostomy tube: If there is a significant amount of gastric residual, it is recommended to return the contents into the stomach before administering the feeding. This helps ensure that the client receives the full prescribed amount of the enteral feeding.
Flush the tube with water: Flushing the gastrostomy tube with water before and after the feeding helps maintain tube patency, clears any residual feeding or medication, and prevents clogging.
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