How it Works
Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (Free-Trial)

A nurse is caring for a client who requires an NG tube. After inserting the tube, the nurse tests the pH of the client's aspirate. Which of the following pH levels should the nurse identify as an indication of correct placement of the tube?

A.

8.0

B.

6.0

C.

7.0

D.

4.0

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A. 8.0: An aspirate pH of 8.0 would indicate an alkaline substance. This would not be typical of stomach contents, which are acidic. An alkaline pH might suggest placement in the intestines or respiratory tract.

B. 6.0: While this is less alkaline than 8.0, it is still not within the typical range for stomach contents. Stomach aspirate is generally more acidic.

C. 7.0: A pH of 7.0 is neutral. Stomach contents are typically more acidic, so a neutral pH would not be consistent with correct NG tube placement in the stomach.

D. 4.0: This is within the acidic range and is consistent with the pH of stomach contents. It would be considered an indication of correct NG tube placement in the stomach.
 


Get 100+ Naxlex Exit Exams for $79 Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (14 Day Free-Trial)

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Free Nursing Study Resources

Related Questions

Correct Answer is B, A, C, D

Explanation

B. Inject 20 units of air into the NPH insulin vial. Injecting air into the NPH vial first helps equalize the pressure. A. Inject 10 units of air into the regular insulin vial. This prepares the regular insulin vial for withdrawal without creating a vacuum. C. Withdraw 10 units of regular insulin. After injecting air into the regular insulin vial, withdraw the regular insulin first to avoid contaminating it with the NPH insulin. D. Withdraw 20 units of NPH insulin. Finally, withdraw the NPH insulin after the regular insulin.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. To confirm the placement of the NG tube:
Confirming NG tube placement is typically done using other methods, such as auscultation of air insufflation, pH testing, or X-ray. Gastric residual measurement helps assess the status of the stomach content but is not the primary method for confirming tube placement.

B. To determine the client's electrolyte balance:
While the gastric contents do contain electrolytes, the primary purpose of measuring gastric residual is to assess gastric emptying and potential feeding intolerance. It is not the most accurate method for determining overall electrolyte balance.

C. To identify delayed gastric emptying:
This is the correct and primary purpose. Measuring gastric residual helps in identifying if there's a delay in the stomach emptying the previously administered feeding, which can inform the nurse about the client's tolerance to enteral nutrition.

D. To remove gastric acid that might cause dyspepsia:
The process of measuring gastric residual doesn't involve removing gastric acid. It's more about assessing how much of the previously administered feeding remains in the stomach. If there's a high residual volume, it may suggest delayed emptying or feeding intolerance. The focus is on adjusting the feeding plan rather than removing gastric acid.

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

Register