Collection of a specimen of vomit

If a client is vomiting profusely and has not responded to treatment, whilst very rare, you may be asked to collect a specimen for microscopy, culture and sensitivity (M,C&S) or to test for the presence of blood. Testing for blood can be done quite simply by dipping a urinalysis strip in the bowl. Specimens for M,C&S should be collected in a sterile universal container and dispatched to the laboratory immediately, though this test is not considered particularly accurate as stomach contents quite often contain bacteria which may or may not be pathogenic.

What is perhaps more important is that you reassure the client and support them by ensuring that:
• The client is not left alone and has a ready supply of bowls and tissues.
• Their dignity is maintained by providing privacy.
• Filled receptacles are monitored and disposed of promptly.
• The client receives appropriate and adequate anti-emetic medication.
• The client is offered a mouthwash or if necessary assisted in restoring their oral hygiene.
• Any soiled clothing or bed linen is replenished immediately.

In this chapter we have outlined some of the more fundamental aspects of elimination. As you become more senior and more experienced, it is all too easy to forget the importance of these activities to clients in the everyday hub of a busy clinical environment, and, in doing so, delegate them to less qualified and experienced personnel who may not approach them with the same level of awareness, care or compassion as yourself. Therefore it is essential to constantly remind yourself that these are, indeed, crucial daily activities that promote health and well-being, but they require tact and diplomacy, as well as expediency, if clients are to receive a high standard of care.