A guaiac test is ordered for a patient. Which type of blood is ...

[rlane42]

A guaiac test is ordered for a patient. Which type of blood is the nurse checking for in this patient's stool?
 
  a. Bright red blood
  b. Dark black blood
  c. Microscopic
  d. Mucoid

Question 2

A nurse is performing an assessment on a patient who has not had a bowel movement in 3 days. The nurse will expect which other assessment finding?
 
  a. Hypoactive bowel sounds
  b. Increased fluid intake
  c. Soft tender abdomen
  d. Jaundice in sclera

[pallen55]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Fecal occult blood tests are used to test for blood that may be present in stool but cannot be seen by the naked eye (microscopic). This is usually indicative of a gastrointestinal bleed. All other options are incorrect. Detecting bright red blood, dark black blood, and blood that contains mucus (mucoid) is not the purpose of a guaiac test.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Three or more days with no bowel movement indicates hypomotility of the GI tract. Assessment findings would include hypoactive bowel sounds, a firm distended abdomen, and pain or discomfort upon palpation. Increased fluid intake would help the problem; a decreased intake can lead to constipation. Jaundice does not occur with constipation but can occur with liver disease.