A nurse is inserting an NG tube for a client who has a new prescription for enteral feedings. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to verify the placement of the client's tube? (Select all that apply.).
Measure the amount of aspirate in the NG tube.
Flush the tube with 50 mL of tap water.
Examine the color of aspirated secretions.
Measure the pH of the client's aspirate.
Obtain an x-ray of the client's chest and abdomen.
Correct Answer : A,C,D,E
Choice A rationale:
Measuring the amount of aspirate in the NG tube is one way to verify the placement of the tube. Aspirate should be tested for color, pH, and other characteristics to ensure proper positioning.
Choice B rationale:
Flushing the tube with tap water doesn't directly verify tube placement. This action might inadvertently introduce air into the tube, potentially leading to inaccurate assessment results.
Choice C rationale:
Examining the color of aspirated secretions is an essential step in verifying tube placement. Different colors of aspirate can indicate different anatomical locations, helping to ensure the tube is properly positioned.
Choice D rationale:
Measuring the pH of the client's aspirate is another important method to verify NG tube placement. Gastric aspirate tends to be acidic, while respiratory aspirate is usually more alkaline.
Choice E rationale:
Obtaining an x-ray of the client's chest and abdomen is a definitive method for confirming NG tube placement. It provides direct visualization of the tube's location and ensures accuracy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The walking gait test is used to assess a client's walking pattern and balance, particularly for identifying abnormalities in gait. However, it doesn't specifically evaluate sensory functions, making it an inappropriate choice for this scenario.
Choice B rationale:
The plantar reflex test, also known as the Babinski reflex test, assesses the neurological integrity of the corticospinal tract. It involves stimulating the sole of the foot to elicit specific reflex movements. While this test is important in assessing neurological function, it doesn't directly evaluate sensory functions as requested in the question.
Choice C rationale:
The finger-to-nose test is a part of the neurological examination used to assess a client's coordination and proprioception. In this test, the client is asked to touch their nose with their index finger while alternating between eyes closed and eyes open. This evaluates their ability to sense the position of their limbs in space (proprioception) and their coordination. It directly addresses the focus of the question, making it the correct choice.
Choice D rationale:
The Romberg test evaluates a client's balance and proprioception. It involves having the client stand with their feet together and their eyes closed to assess their ability to maintain balance without visual input. While this test is relevant to sensory functions, it primarily assesses proprioception and balance rather than coordination, which the question is specifically targeting.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Increased sensitivity to touch is not an expected physiological change associated with aging. Older adults often experience decreased sensitivity to touch due to changes in nerve endings and decreased skin elasticity. This can lead to decreased sensation rather than increased sensitivity.
Choice B rationale:
Decreased peripheral circulation is an expected physiological change associated with aging. With age, blood vessels can become less elastic and more narrow, leading to reduced blood flow to the extremities. This can result in cold extremities, delayed wound healing, and increased vulnerability to skin breakdown. Nurses should assess for signs of impaired circulation in older adult clients and provide appropriate interventions to prevent complications.
Choice C rationale:
Decreased airway resistance is not an expected physiological change associated with aging. Older adults often experience increased airway resistance due to changes in lung elasticity and chest wall compliance. This can lead to decreased lung function and a higher risk of respiratory issues such as pneumonia and bronchitis.
Choice D rationale:
Increased appetite is not an expected physiological change associated with aging. In fact, many older adults experience a decrease in appetite due to factors such as changes in metabolism, decreased sense of taste and smell, and underlying health conditions. This reduced appetite can contribute to malnutrition and weight loss in the elderly population.
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