A nurse is collecting a sputum specimen from a client for culture and sensitivity. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Collect 2 ml of sputum in an emesis basin
Instruct the client to rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash prior to specimen collection
Swab the oropharynx with a sterile swab
Refrigerate the specimen until the time of transport to the laboratory
The Correct Answer is D
Answer: (D) Refrigerate the specimen until the time of transport to the laboratory
Rationale:
A) Collect 2 ml of sputum in an emesis basin: While it is important to collect an adequate volume of sputum, using an emesis basin is inappropriate for collecting a specimen for culture and sensitivity. Sputum must be collected in a sterile container to avoid contamination, ensuring the accuracy of the culture results.
B) Instruct the client to rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash prior to specimen collection: Using an antiseptic mouthwash before collecting a sputum specimen is not recommended, as it could contaminate the sample with antiseptic agents, potentially affecting the growth of microorganisms in the culture. The client should rinse with plain water instead.
C) Swab the oropharynx with a sterile swab: Swabbing the oropharynx is more appropriate for collecting a throat culture rather than a sputum specimen. Sputum collection requires the client to expectorate mucus from the lower respiratory tract, not from the oropharynx, to obtain an accurate sample for culture and sensitivity.
D) Refrigerate the specimen until the time of transport to the laboratory: Refrigerating the sputum specimen is crucial to preserve the integrity of the sample and inhibit the growth of contaminants before it is transported to the laboratory. This action helps ensure that the results of the culture and sensitivity test are accurate.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
c. Ketones positive.
Explanation:
Ketones in the urine can be an indication of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or other metabolic disorders. It is abnormal and should be reported to the healthcare provider for further evaluation and management. Positive ketones suggest that the body is breaking down fats for energy instead of using glucose, which can be a sign of inadequate insulin levels or utilization.
Options a, b, and d are within normal ranges or do not indicate an immediate concern. A specific gravity of 1.020 is within the normal range and indicates appropriate urine concentration. Uric acid levels of 475 mg/24 hr are not mentioned as abnormal or concerning in the context provided. Nitrites negative indicates the absence of nitrites in the urine, which is a normal finding and indicates the absence of a urinary tract infection.
However, it's important to note that clinical judgment should always be exercised, and the nurse should consider the patient's overall clinical presentation and history when interpreting laboratory results and making decisions regarding reporting to the provider.

Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]
Explanation
Compartment syndrome is a condition characterized by increased pressure within a closed anatomical space, such as a compartment in the leg. This increased pressure can compromise blood flow and nerve function. When assessing a client with a long-leg cast who reports severe pain, the nurse should be vigilant for signs and symptoms of compartment syndrome.
Option a is a correct answer because pallor (paleness) in the exposed portion of the left foot may indicate compromised blood flow due to increased pressure within the compartment.
Option b is a correct answer because the inability to move the left foot suggests impaired nerve function,
which can be a sign of compartment syndrome.
Option c is not a correct answer. Increased warmth is not typically associated with compartment syndrome; instead, it may suggest inflammation or infection.
Option d is not a correct answer. Ecchymosis (bruising) is not typically associated with compartment syndrome, as it is more commonly observed in cases of injury or trauma.
Option e is a correct answer because paresthesia (abnormal sensations like tingling or numbness) in the left foot can indicate nerve compression and is a potential symptom of compartment syndrome.
By identifying the presence of pallor, inability to move the foot, and paresthesia, the nurse can recognize indications of compartment syndrome and take appropriate actions to address the condition promptly.
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