A triage nurse in the ER begins the assessment of an elderly patient complaining of bloody diarrhea and severe stomach cramps. The patient has a fever of 104oF as well, and is showing signs of dehydration. IV fluids are administered while further workup of the patient continues.
-Specimen collection from the patient is ordered for microbial analysis in the hospital laboratory. Based upon the patient's symptoms,which of the following samples would the RN expect to be ordered for collection?

Question

A triage nurse in the ER begins the assessment of an elderly patient complaining of bloody diarrhea and severe stomach cramps. The patient has a fever of 104oF as well, and is showing signs of dehydration. IV fluids are administered while further workup of the patient continues.
-Specimen collection from the patient is ordered for microbial analysis in the hospital laboratory. Based upon the patient's symptoms,which of the following samples would the RN expect to be ordered for collection?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Based on the patient's symptoms of bloody diarrhea and stomach cramps, a stool sample would be the most appropriate specimen for microbial analysis to identify the source of infection. The other options, such as cerebrospinal fluid, clean catch urine, and aseptic collection of sputum, are not relevant to the patient's symptoms.

A Triage Nurse in the ER Begins the Assessment of an Elderly