A nurse is caring for a client suspected of having a C. difficile infection. To ensure proper diagnostic testing, which of the following actions is MOST appropriate when preparing to collect the stool sample?
Refrigerate the stool sample to preserve it during transport to the laboratory.
Collect the stool sample in a sterile, leak-proof container and transport it to the lab promptly.
Obtain the stool sample from the toilet bowl after the client defecates.
Add tap water to the stool sample to facilitate transport and analysis.
The correct answer is appropriate because collecting a stool sample in a sterile, leak-proof container and promptly transporting it ensures specimen integrity and accurate diagnostic results. Handling the sample properly reduces the risk of contamination or degradation, which is especially important for infections like C. difficile. Refrigerating the specimen unnecessarily may alter its composition and accuracy. Collecting the sample from the toilet bowl introduces contaminants, while adding tap water compromises the sample's properties, rendering it unsuitable for analysis.
Ask Bash
Bash is our AI bot, trained to help you pass your exam. AI Generated Content may display inaccurate information, always double-check anything important.
What is C. difficile and how does it affect patients?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
Why is it essential to use a sterile, leak-proof container for stool samples?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
What are the potential consequences of improper stool sample collection?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
NCLEX RN
Physiological Integrity
Your Score:
Report Issue
Bash, the Crucial Exams Chat Bot
AI Bot
Loading...
Loading...
Loading...
Nursing and Medical Assistants Package Join Premium for Full Access