A nurse in a long-term care facility is observing an assistant personnel (AP) changing the linen for a client who has fecal incontinence. Which of following actions indicates that the AP understands the principles of infection control?

Correct Actions:

B. Test the pH of gastric aspirate.

Explanation: Testing the pH of gastric aspirate helps confirm that the NG tube is correctly positioned in the stomach. A pH of 4 or less generally indicates gastric placement. This step is crucial to avoid complications like aspiration and ensure proper feeding.

E. Check the tube's placement and patency.

Explanation: Ensuring that the tube is correctly positioned and patent (not blocked) is essential before administering feedings. This involves aspirating some of the gastric contents to confirm placement and flushing the tube with water to verify it is clear and functioning properly.

Incorrect Actions:

A. Discard residual gastric contents.

Explanation: While it is important to measure gastric residuals to assess the stomach's ability to handle the feeding, residuals are not discarded. Instead, they are measured and then returned to the stomach unless otherwise specified by the healthcare provider.

C. Auscultate sounds.

Explanation: Auscultation of bowel sounds is not typically required immediately before administering enteral feedings. However, assessing bowel sounds periodically can be part of overall monitoring to ensure proper gastrointestinal function.

D. Warm the formula to body temperature.

Explanation: Enteral feeding formulas are generally administered at room temperature, although some facilities may have specific protocols for warming. Most guidelines do not require warming formula to body temperature.

A.Physical therapist: They primarily focus on physical rehabilitation, exercises, and mobility issues. While they play a critical role in rehabilitation post-surgery or in managing physical limitations, their role in directly addressing psychosocial aspects might be more indirect.

B.Psychiatrist: Psychiatrists specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions. While they are crucial in managing mental health concerns, their role might be more focused on diagnosing and managing specific psychiatric conditions rather than addressing the broad psychosocial impact of BPH.

C.Social worker. A social worker plays a crucial role in addressing the psychosocial impact of chronic conditions like BPH. They assist in addressing emotional concerns, providing support, connecting clients with community resources, addressing financial concerns, and facilitating coping strategies. They can help the client and their family navigate the emotional and social challenges that arise due to the condition. Therefore, involving a social worker in the client's plan of care is crucial to address the psychosocial aspects related to BPH.

D.Occupational therapist: Occupational therapists focus on helping patients develop, recover, or maintain daily living and work skills. They may assist with practical aspects of daily life but may not primarily address the psychosocial impact of BPH.