A client is hospitalized and on multiple antibiotics. The client develops frequent diarrhea. What action by the nurse is most important?
a. Consult with the provider about obtaining stool cultures.
b. Delegate frequent perianal care to unlicensed assistive personnel.
c. Place the client on NPO status until the diarrhea resolves.
d. Request a prescription for an anti-diarrheal medication.
ANS: A
Hospitalized clients who have three or more stools a day for 2 or more days are suspected of having infection with Clostridium difficile. The nurse should inform the practitioner and request stool cultures. Frequent perianal care is important and can be delegated but is not the priority. The client does not necessarily need to be NPO; if the client is NPO, the nurse ensures he or she is getting appropriate IV fluids to prevent dehydration. Anti-diarrheal medication may or may not be appropriate, and the diarrhea serves as the portal of exit for the infection.
You might also like to view...
The nurse is reading the client's medical history, and learns that the client has a history of alopecia, exophthalmos, and right leg paresthesia. When performing a thorough assessment, the nurse confirms that the client has which manifestations?
1. Hair loss, protruding eyes, and reduced sensation in the right leg 2. Facial hair, deeply sunken eyes, and an abnormal sensation in the right leg 3. Hair loss, exceptionally clear vision, and more sensation than normal in the right leg 4. Hair loss, protruding eyes, and an abnormal sensation in the right leg
An older client without any major health problems is experiencing decreased strength and endurance while performing some activities. What should the nurse explain as the reason for the change in strength and endurance?
1. Depression 2. Decrease in lean muscle mass 3. Lowered absorption of vitamin D 4. Increase in cholecystokinin production
The nurse and doctor are discussing treatment options for a client diagnosed with benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) with the client and his wife
The client expresses an interest in trying an alternative therapy, as he has read that this has been effective in relieving symptoms. The nurse is aware that which of the following is an alternative therapy? 1. Laser surgery 2. Treatment with dutasteride (Avodart) 3. Use of phytotherapy 4. Balloon uretoplasty
The client is status post a recent kidney transplant and is progressing well with healing, kidney function, and diet. During a follow-up visit, the nurse lets him know that he can increase his potassium intake to which of the following?
A) 2 to 3 g/day B) 3 to 4 g/day C) 4 to 5 g/day D) Unrestricted