A nurse is initiating continuous enteral feedings for a client who has a new gastrostomy tube. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Measure the client's gastric residual every 12 hr.
Flush the client's tube with 30 mL of water every 4 hr.
Keep the client's head elevated at 15° during feedings.
Obtain the client's electrolyte levels every 4 hr.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Measuring the client's gastric residual every 12 hr is not frequent enough to monitor the feeding tolerance and prevent aspiration. The nurse should measure the gastric residual before each intermittent feeding or every 4 to 6 hr during continuous feeding¹².
Choice B reason: Flushing the client's tube with 30 mL of water every 4 hr is an appropriate action to maintain the tube patency, prevent clogging, and hydrate the client. The nurse should flush the tube before and after each medication administration, feeding, or gastric residual check¹³.
Choice C reason: Keeping the client's head elevated at 15° during feedings is not sufficient to prevent reflux and aspiration. The nurse should elevate the head of the bed at least 30° to 45° during feedings and for at least 30 min to 1 hr after feedings¹⁴.
Choice D reason: Obtaining the client's electrolyte levels every 4 hr is not necessary unless the client has signs of fluid or electrolyte imbalance, such as edema, dehydration, or abnormal vital signs. The nurse should monitor the client's weight, intake and output, and laboratory values as ordered by the provider¹⁵.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Consuming high-calorie foods early in the day is not a good strategy for weight loss, as it can lead to overeating and increased fat storage. The nurse should advise the client to eat a balanced breakfast that includes protein, fiber, and healthy fats, which can help curb appetite and boost metabolism.
Choice B reason: Limiting carbohydrate intake to 30 grams per day is too restrictive and may cause nutritional deficiencies, ketosis, and adverse effects on mood and cognition. The nurse should recommend a moderate carbohydrate intake of 45 to 65 percent of total calories, with an emphasis on complex carbohydrates from whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes.
Choice C reason: Consuming 500 fewer calories per day can result in a weight loss of about 1 pound per week, which is a safe and realistic goal for a client who has a BMI of 35. The nurse should help the client identify sources of excess calories in their diet and suggest ways to reduce them, such as choosing low-calorie beverages, using smaller plates, and avoiding distractions while eating.
Choice D reason: Following a liquid meal plan for 4 weeks is not a sustainable or healthy way to lose weight, as it can cause muscle loss, electrolyte imbalance, and rebound weight gain. The nurse should encourage the client to eat regular meals that include a variety of foods from all food groups, with appropriate portion sizes and nutrient density.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Positioning the newborn at a 20-degree angle after feeding can help prevent the reflux of gastric contents into the esophagus. This position allows gravity to keep the food in the stomach and reduces the pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter. The nurse should instruct the parent to keep the newborn in this position for at least 30 minutes after each feeding.
Choice B reason: Diluting formula with 1 tablespoon of water is not recommended, as it can cause water intoxication, electrolyte imbalance, and malnutrition in the newborn. Water intoxication can lead to seizures, coma, and death. The nurse should advise the parent to follow the manufacturer's instructions for preparing the formula and not to add extra water.
Choice C reason: Placing the newborn in a side-lying position if vomiting is not a safe practice, as it can increase the risk of aspiration and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Aspiration is when food or liquid enters the lungs and causes pneumonia or respiratory distress. SIDS is when a healthy baby dies suddenly and unexpectedly during sleep. The nurse should instruct the parent to place the newborn on the back for sleeping and to avoid soft bedding, pillows, and stuffed animals.
Choice D reason: Providing a small feeding just before bedtime is not a good idea, as it can worsen the gastroesophageal reflux and disrupt the newborn's sleep. The nurse should suggest the parent to feed the newborn smaller and more frequent meals throughout the day and to avoid feeding the newborn within 2 to 3 hours of bedtime.
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