A client with a gastrostomy tube is receiving a continuous feeding, and the nurse suspects that the client has aspirated some of the feeding. Which action should the nurse take?
Decrease the rate of the feeding by half.
Observe for an allergic reaction to the formula.
Hang a new bag of the enteral formula.
Stop the tube feeding and assess the client.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Decreasing the rate of the feeding might be a consideration if the feeding was too rapid, but it is not the immediate priority if aspiration is suspected.
B. While it is important to monitor for allergic reactions to enteral formulas, this is not the immediate concern if aspiration is suspected. Allergic reactions would typically present with symptoms such as rash, itching, or gastrointestinal distress, and not immediately after aspiration.
C. Hanging a new bag of enteral formula is not an appropriate action if aspiration is suspected. The
priority is to ensure the client’s safety and address any complications that may arise from the aspiration, such as aspiration pneumonia.
D. Stopping the tube feeding and assessing the client is the most appropriate initial action if aspiration is suspected. Immediate assessment is necessary to determine if the client is experiencing signs of aspiration, such as coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, or changes in consciousness.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. The development of a fever and dyspnea in a client receiving continuous tube feeding could indicate a serious complication, such as aspiration pneumonia, infection, or another significant issue. Reporting these findings to the healthcare provider is crucial for further assessment, diagnosis, and intervention.
B. While monitoring electrolyte values is important in clients receiving tube feedings, especially if there are concerns about dehydration or imbalances, it is not the immediate priority in this scenario. The client's fever and dyspnea suggest an acute issue that needs prompt attention, and addressing the acute symptoms and reporting them to the healthcare provider takes precedence over reviewing electrolytes.
C. An incentive spirometer is useful for improving lung function and preventing atelectasis, particularly in postoperative or immobile patients. However, the presence of fever and dyspnea could indicate a more urgent problem such as aspiration or infection, which requires immediate medical evaluation and intervention.
D. Connecting the tube to low intermittent suction is typically used to decompress the stomach in cases of gastric distension or to prevent aspiration of gastrointestinal contents. However, in the context of the client's new onset of fever and dyspnea, this action does not directly address the potential underlying cause, which could be more serious.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. After a myocardial infarction, it is important to monitor the client’s blood pressure before they start ambulating to assess their hemodynamic stability. Changes in blood pressure during or after ambulation could indicate problems such as orthostatic hypotension or cardiovascular instability.
B. While monitoring urinary output is important for assessing renal function and fluid balance, it is not the most immediate concern when preparing the client to ambulate post-MI. The priority is to ensure cardiovascular stability and safety during ambulation, so other interventions take precedence in this situation.
C. Dietary teaching about a cardiac diet is important for long-term management and recovery after an MI. However, it is not the immediate concern when the client is preparing to ambulate for the first time. The priority at this moment is to ensure the client’s safety and stability during the initial physical activity.
D. Vital signs should certainly be monitored, but the more immediate concern when the client is preparing to ambulate is ensuring cardiovascular stability and assessing any potential risk factors that could arise during the activity.
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