A nurse is administering an enteral feeding through a client's NG tube. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Cleanse the top of the can of formula with an alcohol wipe.
Keep the formula cold until instillation.
Withhold the feeding if the residual volume is 150 mL.
Flush the tube with 30 mL of sterile water before the feeding.
The Correct Answer is D
Correct answer: D
A. While it is important to ensure the can of formula is clean, it should be wiped with soap and water or a disinfectant wipe, not an alcohol wipe.
B. Cold formula can cause gastric discomfort or cramping. It's recommended to bring the formula to room temperature before administration to avoid gastric irritation and enhance comfort during feeding.
C. The action of withholding the feeding depends on the institution's protocol and the specific clinical condition of the client. Typically, residuals greater than 200 mL might indicate delayed gastric emptying, but the threshold can vary. A residual volume of 150 mL may not necessarily require withholding the feeding, though it may warrant further assessment.
D. It is standard practice to flush the NG tube with 30 mL of sterile water (or as per facility guidelines) before administering an enteral feeding. This helps ensure the tube is patent, reduces the risk of clogging, and ensures the feeding formula flows smoothly. Flushing before the feeding also helps clear the tube of any residual formula, preventing cross-contamination.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. The nurse administers the feeding through a syringe barrel by gravity.
This is an appropriate method for administering intermittent tube feedings. Gravity feeding with a syringe allows for controlled delivery of the feeding solution.
B. The nurse allows the client to rest in a supine position during feeding.
Feeding a client in a supine position is generally acceptable, especially if the client is comfortable and doesn't experience complications. However, if there are specific contraindications or concerns for aspiration, the nurse should follow the prescribed position guidelines.
C. The nurse irrigates the NG tube with tap water after feeding.
Using tap water to irrigate an NG tube is not recommended, as it may lead to complications such as electrolyte imbalances. Sterile or distilled water should be used for irrigation.
D. The nurse initiates the feeding after aspirating 50 mL of gastric residual.
This is an appropriate action. Aspirating gastric residual before initiating a feeding helps assess the presence of gastric contents, ensuring that the client is ready to receive the feeding. However, specific institutional policies may dictate the threshold for gastric residual volume that requires intervention.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Bradycardia:
Explanation: Bradycardia refers to a slow heart rate. In hypervolemia (fluid overload), the heart often compensates by increasing the heart rate rather than causing bradycardia.
B. Oliguria:
Explanation: Oliguria refers to decreased urine output. In hypervolemia, the increased fluid volume can lead to increased urine output rather than oliguria.
C. Peripheral Edema:
Explanation: Peripheral edema, or swelling in the extremities, is a common manifestation of hypervolemia. Excess fluid can accumulate in the tissues.
D. Hypotension:
Explanation: Hypertension, not hypotension, is more commonly associated with hypervolemia. The increased volume of fluid in the blood vessels can lead to elevated blood pressure.
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