A nurse is preparing to administer medications to a client. At which of the following times should the nurse compare the medication administration record and the medication label? (Select all that apply.)

A. Check the pH level of the client's gastric contents:

Checking the pH level of gastric contents is not typically necessary before administering intermittent tube feeding. pH testing of gastric contents is more commonly performed for clients with nasogastric tubes to confirm tube placement within the stomach. It is not routinely done before administering tube feeding through a percutaneous gastrostomy tube.

B. Check the patency of the client's tube every 8 hr:

While it is essential to check the patency of the tube regularly, every 8 hours may not be frequent enough, especially for clients receiving intermittent tube feedings. Tube patency should be checked before and after each feeding or medication administration to ensure proper function and prevent complications.

C. Place the client in a supine position:

Placing the client in a supine position is not specifically indicated for administering intermittent tube feedings. The client's position during tube feeding administration depends on individual factors such as comfort, mobility, and risk of aspiration. The nurse should position the client in a semi-upright or upright position (typically at a 30-45 degree angle) to reduce the risk of aspiration.

D. Flush the client's tube with 5 mL of water.

Flushing the client's tube with water helps ensure its patency and removes any residual feeding solution or gastric contents, reducing the risk of clogging and infection. Flushing with 5 mL of water is a common practice to maintain tube patency and should be done before and after each feeding and medication administration.

A. Extend the client's neck while securing the ties: This action can compromise the client's airway and is not recommended during tracheostomy tie changes. The client's neck should be in a comfortable, neutral position during the procedure.

B. Use a quick-release knot to secure the ties: Quick-release knots are not typically used for securing tracheostomy ties. Instead, a secure knot that can be easily tied and untied is preferred to ensure the stability of the tracheostomy tube.

C. Allow space for three fingers under the ties when securing.

Allowing space for three fingers is not a standard practice for tracheostomy ties. The ties should be snug but not overly tight, typically allowing for one or two fingers’ width to ensure proper fit and comfort.

D. When changing tracheostomy ties, it is essential to maintain airway security and prevent accidental dislodgement of the tracheostomy tube. The nurse should secure the new ties first before removing the old ones to ensure the tracheostomy remains stable.