A nurse is caring for a client who has a clogged NG tube. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Flush the NG tube using a push and pull technique.
Irrigate the NG tube witha carbonated beverage
Use a 1 mL syringe to flush the NG tube.
Place the patient in prone position.
The Correct Answer is A
Rationale
A. Flush the NG tube using a push and pull technique: The push-pull method helps dislodge debris or thick secretions by creating intermittent pressure changes within the tube. This technique is recommended to restore patency without causing excessive force that may damage the tube or gastric mucosa. It is the safest and most effective initial action for a clogged NG tube.
B. Irrigate the NG tube with a carbonated beverage: Carbonated beverages are not recommended because they can damage the tubing material and are ineffective at dissolving clogs. They may also introduce unwanted substances into the gastrointestinal tract. Current best practice favors warm sterile water rather than soda or acidic liquids.
C. Use a 1 mL syringe to flush the NG tube: A 1 mL syringe generates dangerously high pressure that could rupture the tube or injure gastric tissue. Large-volume syringes, typically 30–60 mL, are used to maintain safe, low pressure during flushing. Using a very small syringe creates risk without increasing the likelihood of clearing the obstruction.
D. Place the patient in prone position: Position changes do not clear mechanical obstructions in the NG tube and may compromise comfort or breathing. Safe NG tube management prioritizes flushing techniques rather than altering the client’s position. Changing posture will not resolve the cause of the clog and may delay appropriate intervention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale
A. Make a priority list of information the client should learn: Creating a priority list is important for organizing teaching content, but it should follow an assessment of the client’s specific learning needs. Prioritization without understanding the client’s knowledge gaps may result in irrelevant or ineffective teaching.
B. Determine the client's learning needs: Assessing the client’s learning needs is the first step in planning effective education. This allows the nurse to identify what the client already knows, what they need to learn, and any barriers to learning, ensuring that subsequent teaching is individualized and relevant.
C. Select a visual method to reinforce verbal teaching for the client: Choosing teaching methods is important for reinforcing learning, but it should be done after determining the client’s needs and preferred learning style. Methods are most effective when tailored to the client’s assessed needs.
D. Obtain written information to give the client: Providing written materials supports retention and understanding, but it should follow an assessment of the client’s needs to ensure the content is appropriate and comprehensible. Giving generic materials without assessment may not address the client’s specific concerns.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale
A. "I will be available for you until your family arrives.": This response provides emotional support and reassurance, addressing the client’s anxiety about undergoing the procedure alone. It demonstrates presence, empathy, and commitment to the client’s safety and comfort.
B. "I'm sure your family will be here soon.": This statement offers false reassurance because the nurse cannot guarantee the family’s arrival time. It may minimize the client’s feelings and does not provide immediate emotional support.
C. "You'll feel better once this procedure is over.": This focuses on the outcome rather than the client’s current emotional distress. It may invalidate the client’s feelings and does not offer support in the present moment.
D. "Why do you think your family is delayed?": Asking “why” can seem judgmental or accusatory and may increase the client’s anxiety. It does not provide comfort or address the immediate need for support before the procedure.
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