A Patient Is Taking Bismuth Subsalicylate [Pepto-Bismol] to Prevent Diarrhea

question 5

Multiple Choice

A patient is taking bismuth subsalicylate [Pepto-Bismol] to prevent diarrhea. The nurse performing an assessment notes that the patient's tongue is black. What will the nurse do?

• A) Assess further for signs of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding.
• B) Reassure the patient that this is an expected side effect of this drug.
• C) Request an order for liver function tests to evaluate for hepatotoxicity.
• D) Withhold the drug, because this is a sign of bismuth overdose.

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Definitions:

Preceptor

An experienced practitioner or faculty member who supervises and guides students or less experienced staff in a specific field of practice.

Professional Identity

An individual's self-concept based on attributes, beliefs, values, motives, and experiences as a member of a profession, guiding their professional behavior.

Accountability

The obligation of an individual or organization to account for its activities, accept responsibility for them, and to disclose the results in a transparent manner.

Autonomy

The capacity to make an informed, uncoerced decision or the quality of having independence or freedom.