Pediatric HESI Test Bank Related

Review Pediatric HESI Test Bank related questions and content

During chemotherapy for lymphocytic leukemia, a client develops abdominal pain, fever, and "horse barn" smelling diarrhea. It would be most important for the nurse to advise the physician to order:

  • A. Enzyme-linked immunosuppressant assay
  • B. Stool for Clostridium difficile test
  • C. Flat palate X-ray of the abdomen
  • D. Electrolyte panel and hemogram
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The client's symptoms of abdominal pain, fever, and "horse barn" smelling diarrhea are concerning for Clostridium difficile infection, especially in the setting of receiving chemotherapy which can weaken the immune system. Clostridium difficile is a bacteria that can cause severe diarrhea and inflammation of the colon. Testing for Clostridium difficile in the stool is crucial for diagnosing the infection and guiding appropriate treatment. Therefore, advising the physician to order a stool test for Clostridium difficile would be the most important in this scenario to confirm the diagnosis and initiate appropriate management.