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?
Wait for 4 hr before sending the specimen to the laboratory.
Avoid collecting the specimen from areas of the stool that contain blood.
Transfer the specimen to a cup without it touching the outside of the container.
Collect at least 7.62 cm (3 in) of the client's stool.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Wait for 4 hr before sending the specimen to the laboratory: Delaying the transport of stool specimens can affect test results by allowing bacterial growth or degradation of components. Specimens should be sent promptly or refrigerated if there is a delay.
B. Avoid collecting the specimen from areas of the stool that contain blood: If testing for occult blood or infection, areas with blood should be included because they provide important diagnostic information, so avoiding them is incorrect.
C. Transfer the specimen to a cup without it touching the outside of the container: Maintaining specimen integrity and preventing contamination is essential. The nurse should ensure the stool does not contact the outside of the container to avoid spreading pathogens and ensure accurate testing.
D. Collect at least 7.62 cm (3 in) of the client's stool: Collecting such a large amount is unnecessary; usually a smaller amount (about 1 inch or walnut size) is sufficient for testing, so this choice is incorrect.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Tell the client to think about something else: Redirecting the client's thoughts without addressing their emotional distress can be dismissive. It does not support emotional processing or help the nurse assess the client’s coping needs.
B. Tell the client that everything will be okay: Offering false reassurance minimizes the client’s feelings and may hinder open communication. It does not validate their experience or help develop coping strategies.
C. Ask the client to describe their support system: Exploring the client’s support system helps assess available emotional and practical resources. This information is essential in planning appropriate interventions and enhancing coping capacity.
D. Ask the client why they're unable to cope: "Why" questions can make clients feel defensive and judged. It is more therapeutic to use open-ended questions that invite sharing without implying blame.
Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"A","dropdown-group-2":"E"}
Explanation
Target 1: Paralytic ileus
- The client is 6 hours postoperative with hypoactive bowel sounds and no mention of flatus or stool. The use of IV opioids (morphine) increases the risk for reduced gastrointestinal motility. Paralytic ileus is common after abdominal surgery and with opioid use.
Target 2: Atelectasis
- The client has shallow bilateral breath sounds postoperatively, which indicates a risk for atelectasis, a common complication due to decreased mobility, pain limiting deep breathing, and effects of anesthesia.
Rationale for Incorrect Choices:
- Urinary tract infection: The client voided 350 mL of clear yellow urine after catheter removal with no signs of infection.
- Delayed wound healing: No signs of infection or poor wound healing; the dressing is dry and intact.
- Deep vein thrombosis: Though a risk postoperatively, the client is wearing SCDs and has even pedal pulses with no edema, lowering immediate concern.
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