A nurse is contributing to the plan of care for a client prescribed continuous enteral feedings. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?
Check the gastric residual every 8 hr.
Change the feeding bag every 24 hr.
Flush the tube with sterile sodium chloride solution every 2 hr.
Position the head of the client's bed at 15.
Correct Answer : B
Correct answer: B
A. Check the gastric residual every 8 hr:
Explanation: It is generally recommended to check gastric residuals more frequently than every 8 hours, often every 4-6 hours, especially in the initial stages of continuous enteral feedings, to monitor tolerance and prevent complications such as aspiration.
B. Change the feeding bag every 24 hr:
Explanation: Changing the feeding bag and tubing at regular intervals helps prevent bacterial contamination and maintain aseptic technique. The frequency of bag changes is typically scheduled every 24 hours or according to facility protocols.
C. Flush the tube with sterile sodium chloride solution every 2 hr:
Explanation: While it is important to flush the feeding tube regularly to maintain patency, using sterile water is typically recommended unless there is a specific clinical indication for sterile sodium chloride. The frequency of flushing (usually every 4-6 hours for continuous feeding) should be determined based on the institution's protocol and the client's specific needs.
D. Position the head of the client's bed at 15 degrees:
Explanation: To reduce the risk of aspiration, the head of the bed should be elevated to at least 30-45 degrees during enteral feedings, not just 15 degrees. Elevating the head of the bed helps prevent reflux and aspiration.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Identify the clients at greatest risk for the development of pressure ulcers.
This option emphasizes the importance of individualized care. By identifying clients at the highest risk for pressure ulcers, healthcare providers can tailor preventive measures to address specific risk factors such as immobility, nutritional deficits, and skin conditions.
B. Turn and position each client every 2 hr.
Regular turning and repositioning are crucial in preventing pressure ulcers, especially in individuals with limited mobility. This helps distribute pressure, reducing the risk of skin breakdown. However, this alone may not be sufficient if other risk factors are not addressed.
C. Use a barrier cream when performing perineal care.
Barrier creams can be helpful in protecting the skin from moisture and friction, especially in areas prone to pressure ulcers. While this is a good practice, it may not be the top priority compared to identifying those at the highest risk.
D. Supervise clients to ensure adequate nutritional intake.
Proper nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining skin integrity. Malnutrition can contribute to the development of pressure ulcers. Monitoring and ensuring adequate nutritional intake are important components of prevention but may not be the initial priority.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "I will allow the position my mother finds most comfortable during the feeding."
This statement does not provide specific guidance on the proper positioning for enteral feedings. It's important to follow recommended positions to prevent complications.
B. "I will turn my mother on her left side during the feeding."
Turning the client on the left side is not a recommended position for enteral feedings. The head of the bed is usually elevated to 30-45 degrees to prevent aspiration.
C. "I will position the head of the bed 45 degrees during the feeding."
This is the correct choice. Elevating the head of the bed to 45 degrees helps prevent aspiration and facilitates proper flow of enteral feedings into the stomach.
D. "I will elevate the head of the bed 10 degrees during the feeding."
While some elevation is better than lying flat, the recommended angle is usually 30-45 degrees to minimize the risk of regurgitation and aspiration.
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