During a physical assessment, the nurse notes a patient passes frequent loose liquid stools. The nurse should document that the patient is experiencing:
a. dyspnea.
b. cyanosis.
c. diaphoresis.
d. diarrhea.
D
Diarrhea is the frequent passage of loose liquid stools. It generally results from increased motility in the colon. This is usually a sign of an underlying disorder. The characteristics of the diarrhea give evidence as to the source. Dark black, tarry stools can mean there is bleeding in the intestines. Bright red blood in the feces indicates active bleeding from the lower portion of the intestinal tract.
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