Which question would be most appropriate for a nurse to ask a patient to assist in establishing a nursing diagnosis of Diarrhea?
a. "What types of foods do you think caused your upset stomach?"
b. "How many bowel movements a day have you had?"
c. "Are you able to get to the bathroom in time?"
d. "What medications are you currently taking?"
ANS: B
The nurse needs to first ensure that the symptoms support the diagnosis. By definition, diarrhea means that a patient is having frequent stools; therefore, asking about the number of bowel movements is most appropriate. Asking about irritating foods and medications may help the nurse determine the cause of the diarrhea, but first the nurse needs to make sure the diagnosis is appropriate. Asking the patient if he can make it to the bathroom will help to establish a diagnosis of incontinence, not diarrhea. The question is asking for the most appropriate statement to establish the diagnosis of Diarrhea.
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