What is the most appropriate nursing action following Mr. Duncan reporting frequent bowel movements?

Assessing the color, odor, consistency, and amount of stool is crucial because it provides essential information about Mr. Duncan's gastrointestinal status. This assessment helps in identifying potential causes of his frequent bowel movements, such as infection, dietary changes, or other underlying medical conditions. By gathering this data, you can establish a baseline, recognize any abnormal findings, and determine the best course of action. Understanding the characteristics of the stool helps guide further interventions and evaluates the effectiveness of any treatment if initiated later.

Documentation is also important, but the priority should be to gather detailed clinical information first. Administering antidiarrheal medication without understanding the underlying cause could mask symptoms or worsen potential conditions. Notifying a physician might be warranted if significant or alarming findings are noted, but thorough assessment precedes this step to provide a clearer picture for medical decision-making.