A nurse is preparing to administer an intermittent enteral feeding to a child who has an NG tube in place. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Place the child in an upright position.
Verify the position of the NG tube.
Determine the gastric residual volume.
Flush the child's NG tube with sterile water.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason:
The nurse should prioritize Choice B over Choice A as it is essential to first confirm the correct placement of the NG tube before proceeding with any other actions. If the tube is not correctly positioned, administering the enteral feeding can lead to potential complications, such as aspiration, which can be life-threatening. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure the NG tube's proper placement before moving forward with the feeding
Choice B reason:
This option takes precedence as verifying the NG tube's position is a fundamental step in the enteral feeding process. The nurse must use appropriate methods, such as X-ray or pH testing, to confirm that the tube is in the stomach and not in the respiratory tract or elsewhere. This verification ensures the safety and effectiveness of the feeding procedure and prevents potential harm to the child.
Choice C reason:
While checking the gastric residual volume (GRV) is an important step in some cases, it should be done after confirming the NG tube's proper placement (Choice B). GRV provides information about the amount of feeding left in the stomach and helps in assessing tolerance to the feeding. However, if the NG tube is misplaced, determining GRV becomes irrelevant as the feeding would not be going to the intended location.
Choice D reason:
Flushing the child's NG tube with sterile water is an appropriate step during the enteral feeding process but should be done after verifying the tube's position (Choice B). Flushing ensures that the tube is patent and free from any obstructions, allowing the feeding to pass through smoothly. However, again, if the NG tube is incorrectly positioned, flushing it would not address the underlying issue.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
The WBC count of 10,000/mm is within the normal range, indicating a normal white blood cell count. There is no cause for concern, and the nurse does not need to report this result to the provider.
Choice B reason:
The Hgb level of 6.8 g/dL is significantly below the normal range, which indicates severe anemia. Menorrhagia, or heavy menstrual bleeding, could be a potential cause of this low hemoglobin level. Anemia can lead to various complications, including fatigue, weakness, and decreased oxygen delivery to tissues. This result requires immediate attention, and the nurse should promptly report it to the healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.
Choice C reason:
The Creatinine level of 0.8 mg/dL is within the normal range. Creatinine is a marker of kidney function, and a normal value suggests that the kidneys are functioning adequately. Since the result is normal, the nurse does not need to report this to the provider.
Choice D reason:
The Potassium level of 3.5 mEq/L is within the normal range, indicating a normal potassium level. There is no immediate concern with this result, and the nurse does not need to report it to the provider.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
The nurse should not remind the client to void every 4 hours because epidural anesthesia can cause temporary loss of bladder sensation, making it difficult for the client to know when to void. Instead, the nurse should use a bladder scanner to assess for urinary retention and encourage the client to void regularly.
Choice B reason:
Encouraging the client to alternate from side to side every 2 hours is not directly related to the administration of epidural anesthesia. This action is commonly advised for clients who are on bed rest to prevent pressure ulcers and promote circulation. However, it is not specifically necessary for the client receiving epidural anesthesia for pain management during labor.
Choice C reason:
Raising the four side rails on the client's bed is not necessary in this situation. The use of side rails should be based on the client's mobility and risk assessment for falls. If the client is receiving epidural anesthesia, they may experience reduced mobility, but the decision to use side rails should be made on an individual basis, not solely based on the anesthesia.
Choice D reason:
Monitoring the client's blood pressure is a crucial action when a client is receiving epidural anesthesia. Epidural anesthesia can cause a drop in blood pressure, leading to hypotension. By regularly monitoring the client's blood pressure, the nurse can detect any significant changes and take appropriate actions to maintain hemodynamic stability.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today