A nurse is caring for a client who receives intermittent enteral feedings through an NG tube. Before administering a feeding, the nurse should measure the gastric residual for which of the following purposes?
To confirm the placement of the NG tube
To determine the client's electrolyte balance
To remove gastric acid that might cause dyspepsia
To identify delayed gastric emptying
The Correct Answer is D
The nurse should measure the gastric residual before administering a feeding to identify delayed gastric emptying. Gastric residual refers to the volume of formula or contents remaining in the stomach from the previous feeding. Measuring gastric residual helps assess how well the client's stomach is emptying and can indicate if there is delayed gastric emptying.
By measuring gastric residual, the nurse can:
● Determine if the stomach has adequately emptied from the previous feeding. ● Assess the client's tolerance to enteral feedings.
● Detect signs of delayed gastric emptying, which can be indicative of gastrointestinal motility issues or other complications.
● Adjust the feeding rate or make other modifications to the enteral feeding plan based on the amount of residual volume.
Confirming the placement of the NG tube is typically done using other methods, such as an X-ray, pH testing, or auscultation of air insufflation. Gastric residual measurement primarily serves the purpose of assessing gastric emptying, rather than confirming tube placement.
While electrolyte imbalances can be monitored in the overall care of a client receiving enteral feedings, measuring gastric residual specifically focuses on assessing gastric emptying and feeding tolerance, rather than determining the client's electrolyte balance.
Removing gastric acid that might cause dyspepsia is not the primary purpose of measuring gastric residual. Gastric residual measurement aims to evaluate the volume of the previous feeding and assess gastric emptying, rather than focusing on dyspepsia specifically.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["C","D"]
Explanation
When reinforcing teaching with a client who has a duodenal ulcer and a new prescription for sucralfate, the nurse should include the following instructions:
"Take the medication on an empty stomach.": Sucralfate is most effective when taken on an empty stomach, usually 1 hour before meals and at bedtime. Taking it with food or other medications may reduce its effectiveness.
"Remain upright for 30 minutes after taking this medication.": To enhance the efficacy of sucralfate, it is important to remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication. This helps to prevent the medication from being washed away by stomach acid and allows it to form a protective coating over the ulcer.
The following statements are incorrect or not applicable:
"Stop taking this medication if you develop constipation.": Constipation is a common side effect of sucralfate. However, abruptly stopping the medication is not necessary if constipation occurs. The nurse should instruct the client to increase fluid intake, consume a high-fiber diet, and discuss any concerns with the healthcare provider. If constipation becomes severe or persists, the healthcare provider can provide further guidance on managing this side effect.
"Take an antacid at the same time you take this medication.": Sucralfate can interact with antacids and other medications, reducing its effectiveness. It is recommended to take sucralfate at least 2 hours before or after taking antacids or other medications to avoid interference with its absorption.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The nurse should measure the gastric residual before administering a feeding to identify delayed gastric emptying. Gastric residual refers to the volume of formula or contents remaining in the stomach from the previous feeding. Measuring gastric residual helps assess how well the client's stomach is emptying and can indicate if there is delayed gastric emptying.
By measuring gastric residual, the nurse can:
● Determine if the stomach has adequately emptied from the previous feeding. ● Assess the client's tolerance to enteral feedings.
● Detect signs of delayed gastric emptying, which can be indicative of gastrointestinal motility issues or other complications.
● Adjust the feeding rate or make other modifications to the enteral feeding plan based on the amount of residual volume.
Confirming the placement of the NG tube is typically done using other methods, such as an X-ray, pH testing, or auscultation of air insufflation. Gastric residual measurement primarily serves the purpose of assessing gastric emptying, rather than confirming tube placement.
While electrolyte imbalances can be monitored in the overall care of a client receiving enteral feedings, measuring gastric residual specifically focuses on assessing gastric emptying and feeding tolerance, rather than determining the client's electrolyte balance.
Removing gastric acid that might cause dyspepsia is not the primary purpose of measuring gastric residual. Gastric residual measurement aims to evaluate the volume of the previous feeding and assess gastric emptying, rather than focusing on dyspepsia specifically.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today