A nurse is checking for the proper placement of a feeding tube. Which of the following methods is the most reliable for verification of tube placement?
Verify the bilirubin level of the tube contents.
Auscultate for air insufflation.
Request a chest x-ray.
Check the pH level of gastric contents.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A Reason:
Verifying the bilirubin level of the tube contents is incorrect. Measuring bilirubin levels in the tube contents is not a standard or reliable method for confirming tube placement. It's not an established or recommended technique for this purpose.
Choice B Reason:
Auscultating for air insufflation is incorrect. Auscultation for air insufflation involves injecting air into the tube and listening for bubbling sounds over the stomach area. While this method is commonly used, it can sometimes yield inconsistent or inconclusive results, especially in patients with certain conditions or situations where air movement might not be detectable.
Choice C Reason:
Request a chest x-ray is correct. Obtaining a chest x-ray is the most reliable method to confirm the placement of a feeding tube, especially when the tube is newly inserted or if there are any doubts about its location. A chest x-ray can accurately visualize the position of the tube within the gastrointestinal tract, ensuring it is in the intended location before any feedings or medications are administered.
Choice D Reason:
Checking the pH level of gastric contents is incorrect. Measuring the pH level of aspirated gastric contents can provide information about the acidity of the fluid, indicating gastric placement (pH below 5) in most cases. However, the pH can be influenced by various factors like medications, enteral feeding solutions, or certain medical conditions, making it less reliable than a chest x-ray for definitive confirmation of tube placement.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Turn on loud music in client care areas is incorrect. This action might increase stress rather than reduce it. Loud noises or music can be distressing for clients, especially in a healthcare setting where rest and recovery are crucial. It's generally better to maintain a calm and quiet environment.
Choice B Reason:
Assign different nurses to provide care for clients each day is incorrect. Continuity of care is often beneficial for clients, as it fosters trust and familiarity. Having different nurses daily might disrupt this continuity and potentially increase stress for clients who prefer consistent caregivers.
Choice C Reason:
While offering some choices can empower clients and reduce stress, too many choices might overwhelm them, particularly in an acute care setting. The key is to provide a balance of autonomy while not overwhelming the client.
Choice D Reason:
Limiting the number of visitors can help create a quieter, more controlled environment, reducing overstimulation and stress for clients. This can be particularly important in an acute care setting where rest and a calm environment are crucial for recovery.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
"I might have headaches due to a decline in my estrogen levels." Is appropriate. During perimenopause, fluctuations and eventual decline in estrogen levels can contribute to various symptoms, including headaches or migraines, due to hormonal changes. This statement reflects an awareness of one of the possible effects of changing hormone levels during this stage.
Choice B Reason:
"The best time to perform a breast self-examination is on the first day of my period." Is not appropriate. While performing a breast self-examination regularly is essential for breast health, the first day of the period isn't necessarily the "best" time for everyone. It's more advisable to choose a consistent day each month that is convenient and easy to remember.
Choice C Reason:
"I can expect to have regular periods until I am in menopause." Is not appropriate. Perimenopause is characterized by irregular periods, which means that during this transitional phase, menstrual cycles often become less predictable in terms of timing, duration, and flow. Irregular periods are a hallmark of perimenopause, so expecting regularity until menopause is not accurate.
Choice D Reason:
"I should stop receiving Papanicolaou tests once I reach menopause." Is not appropriate. Papanicolaou (Pap) tests are essential for detecting cervical abnormalities, regardless of menopausal status. Women should continue to have regular Pap tests according to their healthcare provider's recommendations, as the risk of cervical cancer persists even after menopause.
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