Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) Nursing Practice Test

What is a common sign of colorectal cancer that may be observed by patients?

1. Weight gain

2. Blood in stool

3. Frequent urination

4. Severe headaches

The correct answer is: Blood in stool

Blood in the stool is a significant and common sign of colorectal cancer that patients may observe. This can manifest as bright red blood or dark, tarry stools, which indicate bleeding in the lower or upper gastrointestinal tract, respectively. The presence of blood is an important alert to patients to seek medical evaluation, as it can point to potential issues such as polyps, inflammation, or malignancies within the colon. The other options do not typically represent the classic symptoms associated with colorectal cancer. Weight gain may occur in various conditions but is not a direct indicator of colorectal cancer. Frequent urination is more commonly associated with urinary tract issues rather than gastrointestinal concerns, and severe headaches are generally indicative of neurological issues rather than colorectal pathology. Thus, recognizing blood in stool as a potential warning sign plays a crucial role in early detection and intervention for colorectal cancer.