The nurse is caring for a patient who is to have testing for fecal occult blood. What step will the nurse perform during this testing?
A) Keep the patient on a clear liquid diet for 72 hours.
B) Send the samples to the laboratory while they are still warm.
C) Inform the patient that several stool samples will be needed.
D) Use a sterile container when collecting the stool samples.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Three stool samples are required for fecal occult testing to avoid missing blood that appears intermittently. A sterile container is not required, and the patient does not need to be on a clear liquid diet for the test. Stool samples for culture and sensitivity should be sent to the laboratory when they are fresh and warm.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Who Is to Have