A nurse in a long-term care facility is caring for a client who has a gastrostomy feeding tube. Prior to administering medications, which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

Choice A Reason:

Turn the client every 4 hr. is incorrect. While repositioning is crucial for preventing pressure ulcers in immobile patients, turning the client every 4 hours might not directly address the issue of fecal incontinence or skin protection in the perineal area.

Choice B Reason:

Cleanse the perineal area with povidone-iodine solution is incorrect. Povidone-iodine solution might be too harsh for routine perineal care and can potentially irritate the skin. A gentler cleansing solution is typically recommended to avoid further skin irritation.

Choice C Reason:

Apply cornstarch powder to the perineal area is incorrect. Cornstarch powder might exacerbate moisture-related skin issues in the perineal area by creating a damp environment, potentially leading to skin maceration and worsening skin problems. It's not typically recommended for use in managing fecal incontinence.

Choice D Reason:

Place a moisture barrier ointment over the perineal area is correct. Using a moisture barrier ointment can help protect the skin from irritation and breakdown caused by prolonged exposure to fecal matter, reducing the risk of skin breakdown and discomfort.

Choice A Reason:

Stomach contents are yellowish-green in color is incorrect. While the color of stomach contents might indicate various aspects of digestion or bile presence, a yellowish-green color alone might not necessarily be an immediate cause for concern unless accompanied by other symptoms or indications of a problem.

Choice B Reason:

Aspirated stomach contents' pH measures 6.5 is incorrect. A pH of 6.5 in aspirated stomach contents might indicate a less acidic environment, but it's not usually considered significantly abnormal. However, it's still essential to consider the context and the individual client's situation when interpreting pH values.

Choice C Reason:

Residual volume of stomach contents measures 90 mL is correct. A residual volume of 90 mL is considered high and could indicate delayed gastric emptying or potential issues with the client's ability to tolerate or absorb feedings. Reporting this finding to the provider is essential for further assessment and potential adjustments in the client's care plan.

Choice D Reason:

Hyperactive bowel sounds are present is incorrect. Hyperactive bowel sounds might suggest increased peristalsis or bowel activity. While this finding may be noted and monitored, it might not require immediate reporting unless it's associated with other concerning symptoms or complications.