The patient reports experiencing frequent watery stools after eating undercooked meat at a restaurant. Which health care provider prescription would the nurse implement first?
Administer metronidazole
Administer loperamide
Obtain a CBC
Collect a stool sample
The Correct Answer is D
A. Metronidazole is an antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial and parasitic infections, including those caused by organisms like Giardia and some anaerobic bacteria. While it may be appropriate if a specific diagnosis indicates its use, it is not the first action without further evaluation.
B. Loperamide is an antidiarrheal medication that slows intestinal movement and can help alleviate diarrhea. However, using loperamide in cases of suspected infectious diarrhea (especially if due to a bacterial or parasitic cause) can worsen the condition by keeping pathogens in the system longer. It is generally not the first choice in such scenarios.
C. A complete blood count (CBC) can provide information about the patient's overall health and help identify signs of infection (like elevated white blood cell counts). However, this diagnostic test is not an immediate intervention to manage the patient's current symptoms.
D. Collecting a stool sample is crucial to identify the causative organism responsible for the diarrhea, especially given the recent consumption of undercooked meat. This step is important for guiding appropriate treatment, as it will help determine whether an infectious agent is present and what specific treatment may be required.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Total bilirubin levels are primarily associated with liver function and hemolysis. While malnutrition can impact liver function, total bilirubin is not a direct indicator of nutritional status or malnutrition.
B. Creatine kinase (CK) is an enzyme found in the heart, brain, and skeletal muscles. Its levels are typically associated with muscle damage or myocardial infarction. While malnutrition can impact muscle mass, CK is not specifically altered due to malnutrition alone.
C. Troponin is a protein released when the heart muscle is damaged. It is primarily used as a biomarker for myocardial injury. Malnutrition does not directly affect troponin levels, so this is not a relevant finding in the context of malnutrition.
D. Albumin is a protein produced by the liver and is a key indicator of nutritional status. Low albumin levels can indicate malnutrition, particularly protein deficiency. In cases of anorexia and malnutrition, albumin levels are often decreased due to inadequate protein intake and poor nutritional status.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. While some individuals may experience discomfort or irritation from spicy foods, there is no substantial evidence linking spicy food consumption directly to the development of oral cancer. It can cause symptoms like mouth ulcers or gastritis in some people but is not recognized as a significant risk factor for oral cancer.
B. Long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is not directly associated with an increased risk of oral cancer. In some contexts, they may even have protective effects against certain cancers due to their anti-inflammatory properties. However, chronic use can lead to other complications, such as gastrointestinal issues, rather than directly influencing oral cancer risk.
C. Cholecystitis, or inflammation of the gallbladder, is unrelated to the development of oral cancer. It primarily affects the digestive system and does not have a known link to oral malignancies. Thus, it is not considered a risk factor for oral cancer.
D. HPV, particularly certain high-risk strains, is recognized as a significant risk factor for the development of oral cancers, especially oropharyngeal cancers. HPV can lead to cellular changes that increase the likelihood of malignancy in the oral cavity.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
