A nurse is planning care for a client who has a decreased level of consciousness. The client is receiving continuous enteral feedings via a gastrostomy tube due to an inability to swallow. Which of the following is the priority action by the nurse?
Observe the client's respiratory status.
Monitor intake and output every 8 hr.
Elevate the head of the client's bed 30° to 45°.
Check residual volume every 4 to 6 hr.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Observing the client's respiratory status is also important, but it is an ongoing assessment rather than an immediate action.
B. Monitoring intake and output every 8 hours is important for overall fluid balance, but it is not the top priority in this situation.
C. This is crucial to prevent aspiration, which can occur if the feeding formula enters the lungs, leading to pneumonia or other serious complications. Elevating the head of the bed helps keep the esophagus above the stomach, reducing the risk of aspiration.
D. Checking residual volume every 4 to 6 hours is a part of enteral feeding care, but it is not the top priority. Monitoring respiratory status takes precedence due to the potential risk of aspiration.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. An elevation in the red blood cell (RBC) count is not a specific indication of infection. It primarily reflects oxygen-carrying capacity.
B. An elevation in the white blood cell (WBC) count is an indication of infection. When the body is fighting an infection, the number of white blood cells increases as part of the immune response.
C. Potassium is an electrolyte and is not a specific marker for infection. Abnormal potassium levels may indicate a variety of conditions, but they do not directly indicate infection.
D. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) is a marker of kidney function and is not a specific indicator of infection. Elevated BUN levels can be seen in various kidney and non-kidney-related conditions.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Autonomy vs. shame and doubt focuses on developing a sense of independence and autonomy in early childhood (around 1-3 years old). It does not directly involve acceptance of death.
B. Identity vs. role diffusion pertains to adolescence (around 12-18 years old) and involves the development of a sense of self and one's role in society. It does not specifically address the acceptance of death.
C. Integrity vs. despair is the stage that occurs in late adulthood (65 years and older), where individuals reflect on their lives. Acceptance of death is a significant aspect of achieving a sense of integrity during this stage.
D. Generativity vs. stagnation occurs in adulthood (around 40-65 years old) and involves concerns about contributing to the next generation and leaving a legacy. While mortality may be a consideration, it is not the primary task of this stage.
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