A nurse is preparing to collect a stool specimen from a client for laboratory testing. Which of the following actions should the nurse take when collecting the specimen?
Transfer the specimen to a cup without it touching the outside of the container.
Wait for 4 hr before sending the specimen to the laboratory.
Collect at least 7.62 cm (3 in) of the client's stool.
Avoid collecting the specimen from areas of the stool that contain blood.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Transfer the specimen to a cup without it touching the outside of the container.: This maintains a clean environment and prevents the spread of microorganisms to others.
B. Wait for 4 hr before sending the specimen to the laboratory.: Specimens should be sent to the lab immediately to ensure accurate results, as changes in temperature and pH can degrade the sample.
C. Collect at least 7.62 cm (3 in) of the client's stool.: Usually, 1 inch (2.5 cm) of formed stool or 15–30 mL of liquid stool is sufficient for testing.
D. Avoid collecting the specimen from areas of the stool that contain blood.: Incorrect. If blood, mucus, or pus is present, these areas should be included in the specimen as they are most likely to contain pathogens.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Yellow sclera/jaundice: This image shows yellowing of the sclera, known as jaundice or icterus. This is not an expected age-related change; it is a pathological finding that typically indicates liver, gallbladder, or pancreatic dysfunction, or the hemolysis of red blood cells. While some older adults may develop harmless fatty deposits (pinguecula) that appear slightly yellow, generalized yellowing of the eyes always requires medical follow-up.
B. Increased thoracic curvature/kyphosis: This image shows a classic "hunchback" posture, clinically known as kyphosis. While severe kyphosis can be pathological (often due to osteoporosis), a gradual increase in the curvature of the thoracic spine is considered an expected age-related change. It results from the thinning of intervertebral discs, a slight loss of height in the vertebrae, and a decrease in muscle tone as the body ages.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Place cold packs on the client's axillae.: This is an aggressive cooling measure usually reserved for extremely high temperatures (heatstroke) and can cause shivering, which increases metabolic demand.
B. Give the client an alcohol sponge bath.: This is contraindicated as alcohol evaporates too quickly, causing chilling and shivering, and can be absorbed through the skin.
C. Place a fan to blow air across the client.: This can cause shivering, which actually raises the body's internal temperature.
D. Remove blankets from the client.: Removing excess clothing and linens allows for heat loss through radiation and conduction, helping to lower the temperature naturally and comfortably.
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