A nurse is assessing an older adult client. Which of the following should the nurse identify as an expected physiological change associated with aging?

Choice A rationale:

Unclamping the client's gastrostomy tube before connecting the syringe is the correct action. This allows the feeding to flow freely into the stomach. Clamping the tube while administering the feeding would prevent the formula from entering the stomach properly.

Choice B rationale:

Verifying the client's gastric pH to be at least 7 prior to feeding is not necessary for administering intermittent enteral feedings. Gastric pH varies widely among individuals and is not a standard requirement before every feeding.

Choice C rationale:

Pouring the client's formula into the syringe and adjusting the syringe's height to control the rate of flow is not recommended. Controlling the rate of flow in this manner is imprecise and can lead to inconsistent delivery of the formula, potentially causing discomfort or complications.

Choice D rationale:

Applying sterile gloves before accessing the client's gastrostomy tube is an important step in infection control, but it is not specifically related to administering intermittent enteral feedings. Sterile gloves are essential to prevent contamination and infection during tube maintenance and insertion, not during the feeding process itself.

Choice A rationale:

Using the cane to support body weight is not the correct technique. The purpose of a cane is to provide balance and support, not to bear the entire body weight. Placing the entire body weight on the cane can lead to instability and falls.

Choice B rationale:

Placing the cane next to the unaffected leg (right leg in this case) is the correct technique. This positioning provides additional support and stability on the side opposite to the affected leg. This helps in maintaining balance and reducing the risk of falling.

Choice C rationale:

The type of cane is not as relevant as using it correctly. The material of the cane doesn't impact the client's understanding of how to use it safely. While using a wooden cane might be acceptable, the material itself is not an indication of the client's understanding of safe cane use.

Choice D rationale:

Moving the right leg forward first is not the correct technique for using a cane. The correct foot to move forward first is the affected leg, in this case, the left leg. This allows the client to maintain a stable base of support while moving.