A client is hospitalized and on multiple antibiotics.The client develops frequent diarrhea.What action by the nurse is most important?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

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.

A Client Is Hospitalized and on Multiple Antibiotics