A nurse is preparing to administer several medications via an NG tube to a client who is receiving a continuous tube feeding. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Combine the medications with the formula in the feeding bag.
Dilute each crushed medication with warm water.
Mix the medications together in a single syringe.
Flush the NG tube with 5 mL of sterile water for irrigation prior to administration.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Combining medications with the formula in the feeding bag:
This is not recommended because it may lead to interactions between the medications and the enteral feeding formula. Medications may also adhere to the tubing or interfere with the absorption of nutrients from the feeding formula.
B. Diluting each crushed medication with warm water:
While diluting medications may be necessary for some drugs, it is not a general rule for all medications. Additionally, dilution with warm water may not be appropriate for all drugs, and the amount of water needed may vary. It's safer to use a standardized method, such as flushing the tube with sterile water.
C. Mixing the medications together in a single syringe:
This is generally not recommended because different medications may have incompatible properties or form precipitates when mixed together. Mixing medications in a single syringe can compromise the effectiveness of each medication and may lead to unpredictable reactions.
D. Flush the NG tube with 5 mL of sterile water for irrigation prior to administration:
Flushing the tube with sterile water helps ensure that the tube is clear of any residual formula, preventing potential interactions between the medication and the enteral feeding. It also helps clear the tube, reducing the risk of clogs or blockages. Using sterile water helps maintain aseptic technique.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Schedule a support session for the client.While providing emotional support is important, it is not the immediate priority. The client needs to understand how to communicate effectively after the laryngectomy.
B. Review the use of an artificial larynx with the client.This intervention is the priority because the client will need to know how to use an artificial larynx to facilitate communication after losing their natural voice. This understanding is critical for the client’s post-operative adjustment and ability to express themselves.
C. Explain the techniques of esophageal speech.Although teaching esophageal speech is important, the use of an artificial larynx may be more immediately relevant and easier for the client to learn and use right after surgery.
D. Determine the client's reading ability.This may be relevant for assessing the client's ability to understand written instructions, but it is not as directly related to their immediate post-operative needs for communication.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. The client is consuming 25% of their meals.
Poor nutritional intake can lead to complications over time, but it is not the most immediate concern compared to other options. This finding is important but not the highest priority.
B. The client coughs frequently while eating.
Frequent coughing while eating can indicate dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), which increases the risk of aspiration. Aspiration can lead to serious complications like aspiration pneumonia, which is life-threatening. This is the nurse’s priority finding because it poses an immediate risk to the client’s airway and respiratory status.
C. The client's blood pressure is 142/94 mm Hg.
The blood pressure is elevated, which is concerning, especially in a post-stroke client. However, it is not critically high and does not present an immediate threat compared to the risk of aspiration.
D. The client leans to the left side while sitting.
Leaning to the left side while sitting could indicate poor balance or proprioception, which increases the risk of falls. While important to address, it is not as immediately critical as the risk of aspiration.
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