A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving enteral tube feedings of a diluted formula. Which of the following complications of enteral tube feeding should the nurse identify as a reason to administer diluted feedings to clients?
Electrolyte imbalances
Diarrhea
Constipation
Delayed gastric emptying
The Correct Answer is B
A. Electrolyte imbalances
Administering diluted enteral feedings is not typically done to address electrolyte imbalances. Instead, monitoring the electrolyte levels in the patient's blood and adjusting the content of the enteral formula (such as adjusting the concentration of electrolytes) would be more appropriate.
B. Diarrhea
Administering diluted enteral feedings is a strategy that may be employed to prevent or manage diarrhea. High concentrations of nutrients can overwhelm the gastrointestinal tract, leading to diarrhea. Diluting the formula helps reduce the risk of this complication.
C. Constipation
Administering diluted enteral feedings is not typically done to address constipation. Management of constipation is more commonly achieved through adjustments in fiber intake, fluid intake, and medications as needed.
D. Delayed gastric emptying
Administering diluted enteral feedings is not a standard approach for addressing delayed gastric emptying. Instead, adjustments in the rate of enteral feedings or specific interventions for delayed gastric emptying, such as medication or changes in positioning, would be considered.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. “I will call for pain medication before the previous dose wears off.”
The statement "I will call for pain medication before the previous dose wears off" indicates an understanding of proactive pain management. In postoperative pain control, it is generally more effective to stay ahead of the pain by taking pain medication on a scheduled basis rather than waiting until the pain becomes severe. This approach helps to maintain a more consistent level of pain relief.
B. “I will call for pain medication as my pain becomes intolerable.”
Waiting until the pain becomes intolerable may result in suboptimal pain control. It's more effective to take pain medication before reaching a point of intolerable pain.
C. “I will wait for you to evaluate my pain before asking for more.”
Waiting for the nurse to evaluate pain before requesting more medication may result in delays in pain relief. Pain management often involves collaboration between healthcare providers and patients, and timely communication about pain levels is essential.
D. “I will ask for less medication to avoid addiction.”
This statement reflects a concern about addiction but may lead to inadequate pain relief. Pain management should prioritize effective pain control while balancing the risks and benefits of medications. The goal is to provide sufficient pain relief without compromising the client's well-being.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. “I will keep my baby’s head slightly elevated during the feeding.”
This statement is correct. Keeping the baby's head slightly elevated during feeding can help prevent ear infections (otitis media) and is a recommended practice.
B. “I will hold my baby close to me while feeding.”
Holding the baby close during feeding promotes bonding and is generally considered a good practice for both bottle-feeding and breastfeeding.
C. “Each feeding should last about 15 minutes.”
This statement indicates a need for further teaching. The duration of a feeding can vary among infants, and it's not advisable to put a strict time limit on each feeding. It's important to follow the baby's cues and allow for individual variations in feeding patterns.
D. “Propping a bottle can cause otitis media.”
This statement is correct. Propping a bottle can lead to ear infections (otitis media) and is not a safe or recommended practice. The baby should be held during feedings to prevent these issues.
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