The nurse is evaluating the laboratory results of a stool sample.What is a normal finding?
A) The laboratory reports a stool pH of 5.0.
B) The laboratory reports a negative guaiac.
C) The laboratory reports low levels of enzymes.
D) The laboratory reports reducing substances present.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The normal stool finding is a negative guaiac.Stool pH should be 7.0 to 7.5.A stool pH <5.0 is suggestive of carbohydrate malabsorption; colonic bacterial fermentation produces short-chain fatty acids,which lower stool pH.There should be no enzymes or reducing substances present in a normal stool sample.

The Nurse Is Evaluating the Laboratory Results of a Stool