When evaluating a client's rectal bleeding, which findings should the nurse document?

Number of blood clots expelled with each stool.

Evidence of internal hemorrhoids.

Unique odor noted with gastrointestinal bleeding.

Color characteristics of each stool.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A. Number of blood clots expelled with each stool:
While the number of blood clots expelled with each stool may be relevant in assessing the severity of bleeding, it does not provide as much information about the potential underlying causes of bleeding as documenting the color characteristics of the stool does. Therefore, although it may be noted, it is not the most crucial aspect to document initially.

B. Evidence of internal hemorrhoids:
Documenting evidence of internal hemorrhoids is important in assessing rectal bleeding, but it is not as fundamental as documenting the color characteristics of the stool. Internal hemorrhoids can be one potential cause of rectal bleeding, but other more serious conditions may also cause bleeding, so a comprehensive assessment of the stool is necessary.

C. Unique odor noted with gastrointestinal bleeding:
While gastrointestinal bleeding may have a distinct odor, documenting this alone does not provide as much diagnostic information as describing the color characteristics of the stool. Documenting odor may be important in some cases, but it is not as critical as documenting the color of the stool, which can help identify potential causes of bleeding.

D. Color characteristics of each stool:
When evaluating rectal bleeding, documenting the color characteristics of each stool is crucial. Different colors of stool can indicate various underlying causes of bleeding. Bright red blood typically suggests lower gastrointestinal bleeding, while darker, tarry stools (melena) may indicate bleeding higher in the gastrointestinal tract. Describing the color, consistency, and presence of any abnormal substances in the stool helps healthcare providers assess the severity and potential causes of the bleeding.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) Aortic site:
The aortic site is relevant for cardiac assessment but not for auscultating breath sounds.

B) Sternum:
The sternum is a bony structure and not an optimal location to start auscultating breath sounds as it can interfere with sound transmission.

C) Lung apex:
Auscultating at the lung apex, which is located just above the clavicle, is the appropriate starting point for assessing anterior breath sounds. This ensures that the upper parts of the lungs are examined first.

D) Clavicle:
While the area near the clavicle is relevant, it is more precise to refer to the lung apex, which includes the area just above the clavicle, for starting the auscultation of breath sounds.

A. Looking at the client from the side, observe the size and shape of the chest wall. B. Use the fingertips to compress tissue over the lungs for evidence of a crackling sensation. C. Place the palm of the hand on the chest wall to feel vibrations while the client speaks. D. Use a stethoscope to listen to and compare breath sounds anteriorly and posteriorly.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) Looking at the client from the side, observe the size and shape of the chest wall:
This action is more related to inspecting the physical appearance and symmetry of the chest wall but does not assess tactile fremitus.

B) Use the fingertips to compress tissue over the lungs for evidence of a crackling sensation:
This action may be more relevant for assessing subcutaneous emphysema (crepitus) but is not the correct method for assessing tactile fremitus.

C) Place the palm of the hand on the chest wall to feel vibrations while the client speaks:
This is the correct action to assess tactile fremitus. By placing the palm of the hand on various areas of the chest wall while the client repeats a phrase such as "ninety-nine," the nurse can feel for vibrations. Increased tactile fremitus can indicate consolidation, as seen in pneumonia.

D) Use a stethoscope to listen to and compare breath sounds anteriorly and posteriorly:
This action involves auscultation, which is important for assessing breath sounds but does not assess tactile fremitus directly.

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When evaluating a client's rectal bleeding, which findings should the nurse document?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

When systematically auscultating a client's anterior breath sounds, the nurse should begin by placing the stethoscope over which location?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

In assessing tactile fremitus in the client with suspected pneumonia, the nurse should perform which action?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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