The nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with cancer of the pancreas head who is complaining of nausea, severe epigastric pain, and jaundice. Which of the following stool characteristics can the nurse anticipate?
Blood tinged
Clay
Brown
Chalky
The Correct Answer is B
A. Blood-tinged: Pancreatic cancer does not typically cause rectal bleeding.
B. Clay: Blockage of the bile duct leads to pale (clay-colored) stools due to lack of bilirubin.
C. Brown: Normal stools are brown due to bilirubin metabolism.
D. Chalky: Chalky is not a typical term used for stool description in pancreatic cancer.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. A client admitted with pancreatitis who is requesting pain medication: While pancreatitis causes severe pain, this is not the highest priority. Pain management is important, but it does not indicate an immediate life-threatening issue.
B. A client post a liver biopsy who has tachycardia and is restless: Tachycardia and restlessness following a liver biopsy may indicate internal bleeding due to liver puncture. The liver is highly vascular, and hemorrhage is a serious complication requiring immediate assessment.
C. A client admitted with ulcerative colitis who is requesting an anti-diarrheal: While diarrhea is distressing, this is not life-threatening. The client can be seen after addressing the higher-priority client.
D. A client postop day 1 with dark red drainage the size of a dime on the dressing: Small amounts of dark red drainage are expected postoperatively. This client does not require immediate attention.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
peritonitis are present. Treating the underlying cause (perforation) is more urgent than lowering the fever.
B. Notify the healthcare provider: A hard, rigid abdomen with fever indicates possible perforation and peritonitis, which is a medical emergency. The provider must be notified immediately for urgent intervention.
C. Prepare to administer an enema: Enemas are contraindicated in acute diverticulitis due to the risk of perforation.
D. Continue to monitor the client closely: While continued monitoring is always necessary, immediate action (calling the provider) is critical when signs of peritonitis are present.
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