A Patient Expresses Concerns Over Having Black Stool

question 38

Multiple Choice

A patient expresses concerns over having black stool.The fecal occult test is negative.Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?

• A) "This is probably a false negative; we should rerun the test."
• B) "Do you take iron supplements?"
• C) "You should schedule a colonoscopy as soon as possible."
• D) "Sometimes severe stress can alter stool color."

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Definitions:

Exposure Status

The classification or measurement of an individual's or group's contact with a specific environmental factor or agent.

Risk

refers to the probability of occurrence of harm or loss associated with an action or event.

Epidemiologic Study

Research investigating the distribution and determinants of health and diseases in populations.

Sunscreens

Products that are applied to the skin to protect it from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.