Pediatric Research Questions Related

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A parent has asked the nurse about how her child can be tested for pinworms. The nurse responds by stating that which is the most common test for diagnosing pinworms in a child?

  • A. Lower gastrointestinal (GI) series
  • B. Three stool specimens, at intervals of 4 days
  • C. Observation for presence of worms after child defecates
  • D. Laboratory examination of a fecal smear
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The most common test for diagnosing pinworms in a child is a laboratory examination of a fecal smear. This involves taking a sample of the child's feces and examining it under a microscope to look for pinworm eggs or actual adult worms. This test is more reliable and accurate compared to other methods for detecting pinworms. It is important to collect the sample in the morning before the child has a bowel movement or bath, as this increases the chances of finding the eggs.