A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a bowel surgery and has an NG tube connected to low intermittent suction. Which of the following assessment findings should indicate to the nurse that the NG tube might not be functioning properly?
Wall suction set to 60 mm Hg
Drainage fluid is greenish-yellow
Aspirate pH of 3
Abdominal rigidity
The Correct Answer is D
A. A wall suction setting of 60 mm Hg is within the expected range for low intermittent suction. This indicates the NG tube is likely functioning appropriately in terms of suction pressure.
B. Greenish-yellow drainage is an expected finding and reflects bile-stained gastric contents. This suggests the NG tube is effectively removing gastric secretions.
C. An aspirate pH of 3 is acidic and consistent with gastric placement of the NG tube. This finding supports proper tube positioning and function.
D. Abdominal rigidity may indicate that gastric contents are not being adequately decompressed, suggesting the NG tube is obstructed or not functioning properly. This is an abnormal and concerning finding requiring immediate attention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Initiating IV access is a priority to establish a route for medication administration and fluid resuscitation, which are crucial in the management of acute pancreatitis.
B. Administering pain medication is important, but establishing IV access should be prioritized to ensure timely delivery of medications and fluids.
C. Sending the client to radiology for a CT scan may be necessary but should not take precedence over establishing IV access for immediate intervention.
D. Inserting an NG tube may be indicated later in the client's care but is not the first priority compared to establishing IV access.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. A client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease who needs guidance on incentive spirometry requires nursing judgment and education to ensure proper technique, so this task is best performed by a nurse.
B. A client who had a myocardial infarction 3 days ago and reports chest discomfort requires assessment and potential intervention by a nurse to address cardiac issues.
C. Assisting a client with toileting typically involves tasks such as transferring, positioning, and providing hygiene assistance, which can be safely delegated to an assistive personnel.
D. Providing a client who has awoken following a bronchoscopy with a drink involves assessing for the absence of nausea or vomiting and ensuring the client can swallow safely, which requires nursing judgment and should be performed by a nurse.
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