A patient expresses concerns over having bright red stool. Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?
"Sometimes severe stress can make the stool bright red."
"This is probably nothing. Just let me know if it happens again."
"This needs to be investigated. I will need a stool sample immediately and need to notify the Charge RN."
"You should schedule a colonoscopy as soon as possible."
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A: Bright red stool can be caused by various factors, including the consumption of certain foods, medications, or gastrointestinal bleeding. Stress can lead to changes in bowel movements and might cause bright red stool due to increased gastrointestinal motility.
Choice B: While it's essential to reassure the patient, dismissing their concern without further assessment is not appropriate. The nurse should still investigate the potential causes of bright red stool.
Choice C: Jumping to conclusions and ordering immediate tests without further assessment is not the best approach. Before taking any action, the nurse should gather more information and assess other possible causes.
Choice D: Suggesting a colonoscopy as the first step is not necessary for every case of bright red stool. Further assessment is needed to determine the cause before resorting to such an invasive procedure.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A For an ileostomy, liquid consistency of stool is expected as the output, and it is not an immediate concern.
Choice B Foul odor from the stool is common with ileostomy output, and while it can be unpleasant, it is not an immediate concern.
Choice C This finding should be reported immediately, as it could indicate bleeding from the stoma or intestinal mucosa, which requires prompt evaluation and intervention.
Choice D Continuous output from an ileostomy is normal and expected, so it is not a cause for immediate concern.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A A bowel training schedule is not typically required for patients with an ileostomy, as they have a surgically created opening (stoma) for stool to pass directly out of the body.
Choice B Bowel training can be beneficial for patients with incontinence, as it involves establishing a regular toileting routine to help regain bowel control and prevent accidental bowel movements.
Choice C C. difficile is an infectious condition that affects the gastrointestinal tract, and bowel training may not be the primary intervention for this patient.
Choice D Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease, and while bowel training may be helpful for some Crohn's patients, it is not the most common intervention for this condition.
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