RN Exam Practice
Reduction of Risk PotentialQuestion 2358 of 2368

A client reports passing white stools after a barium enema. Which response by the nurse is best?

  1. White stools mean the client is bleeding in the colon
  2. White stools mean the laxative order should be refused
  3. White stools require a stool culture to be collected
  4. White stools are expected for a few days after this test
Show answer

Correct answer: White stools are expected for a few days after this test

White stools are normal for a few days after barium. A laxative may be prescribed to prevent hard stools.

Source: Nursing Fundamentals, 2nd edition (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2024), Elimination: BARIUM ENEMA. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Practice the topic "Reduction of Risk Potential"

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026