During an assessment, the nurse notes that a client’s stool is black.

During an assessment, the nurse notes that a client’s stool is black. Which medication should the nurse consider as causing this client’s change in stool color?

1. Iron
2. Aspirin
3. Antacids
4. Antibiotics
5. Pepto-Bismol

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 1, 2, 5

Rationale 1: Iron salts lead to black stool because of the oxidation of the iron.

Rationale 2: Any drug that causes gastrointestinal bleeding, such as aspirin, can cause the stool to be black.

Rationale 3: Antacids can cause a whitish discoloration or white specks in the stool.

Rationale 4: Antibiotics may cause a gray-green discoloration of the stool.

Rationale 5: Pepto-Bismol causes stools to be black.