A client is prescribed a diagnostic test requiring a 24-hour stool spe

A client is prescribed a diagnostic test requiring a 24-hour stool specimen. What should this test indicate to the nurse?

1. Analyze the stool for dietary products and digestive secretions.
2. Detect the presence of bacteria or viruses.
3. Detect the presence of ova and parasites.
4. Determine the presence of occult blood.

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 1
Rationale 1: The nurse needs to collect and send the total quantity of stool expelled at one time instead of a small sample so that the specimen can be analyzed for dietary products and digestive secretions.
Rationale 2: To detect bacteria or viruses, only a small amount of stool is needed.
Rationale 3: To detect ova or parasites, only a small amount of stool is needed.
Rationale 4: To determine the presence of occult blood, only a small amount of stool is needed.