A nurse is caring for a client who has anemia and is being evaluated to determine the cause. The nurse has an order for a guaiac stool test. The nurse understands the purpose of the test is to check the stool for which of the following substances?

Choice A reason:

A glass of wine daily can contribute to peptic ulcer risk due to alcohol’s irritating effect on the stomach lining, increasing acid production. However, in moderate amounts, it is not as significant a risk factor as NSAID use.

Choice B reason:

Bulimia involves repeated vomiting which can increase gastric acid exposure and potentially contribute to peptic ulcers, but it is not as commonly recognized a risk factor as NSAID use. It’s more directly linked to esophageal irritation and damage.

Choice C reason:

NSAID use is a well-established risk factor for peptic ulcers. These medications inhibit prostaglandins that protect the stomach lining, making it more susceptible to damage from stomach acid. Regular or high-dose use of NSAIDs can significantly increase peptic ulcer risk.

Choice D reason:

Green tea is generally considered beneficial for health, including its anti-inflammatory properties. It does not contribute to peptic ulcer risk and is often part of a healthy diet.

Choice A reason:

Preparing to take the client for a STAT CT of the head is crucial to quickly diagnose a possible stroke. Rapid imaging is essential to determine the type of stroke (ischemic or hemorrhagic), guiding appropriate treatment and improving outcomes. This immediate action is key in stroke management.

Choice B reason:

Administering rtPA is an appropriate intervention for an ischemic stroke but only after confirmation through imaging. Without imaging, there is a risk of worsening a potential hemorrhagic stroke. Hence, it is not the initial priority before confirming the diagnosis.

Choice C reason:

Notifying a speech pathologist for an emergency consult is relevant for assessing and managing speech and swallowing issues but is not the immediate priority. The primary focus should be on diagnosing and addressing the cause of the acute symptoms.

Choice D reason:

Discussing precipitating factors that caused the symptoms can be part of the assessment but is not the priority in the acute phase. Immediate imaging and medical intervention take precedence to mitigate the effects of a potential stroke.