A nurse is preparing to insert a client's NG tube for enteral feedings. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

A. Leave the needle in place for 10 seconds after the injection: Leaving the needle in place for approximately 10 seconds after administering a subcutaneous injection helps ensure full delivery of the medication and reduces the chance of medication leakage at the injection site.

B. Use a 5-inch needle for the injection: A 5-inch needle is excessively long for subcutaneous injections and would likely penetrate muscle tissue, increasing the risk of injury or incorrect medication administration. Subcutaneous injections typically require a needle length between ⅜ and ⅝ inch.

C. Inject the medication using the Z-track technique: The Z-track technique is used for intramuscular injections to minimize medication leakage and reduce irritation. It is not appropriate for subcutaneous injections, which are administered into the fatty layer beneath the skin, not deep muscle tissue.

D. Insert the syringe at a 15° angle during injection: A 15° angle is used for intradermal injections. Subcutaneous injections should be administered at a 45° to 90° angle depending on the client’s body mass to ensure the medication is delivered into the subcutaneous tissue, not the dermis or muscle.

A. Removing blankets from the client helps reduce external heat sources and allows body heat to dissipate, which can aid in lowering the elevated temperature. This action supports the body’s natural cooling mechanisms and provides comfort during a febrile state.

B. Placing cold packs on the axillae can help lower body temperature by cooling major blood vessels near the skin’s surface. However, this method may cause discomfort or shivering, which can paradoxically increase metabolic heat production and is less preferred than removing excess coverings.

C. Using a fan to blow air across the client promotes evaporative cooling, but if the client is shivering or chills are present, this can increase discomfort and cause the body to generate more heat. Fans are best used when the client is comfortable and not experiencing chills.

D. Giving an alcohol sponge bath is generally discouraged because alcohol is rapidly absorbed through the skin and can cause toxicity. Additionally, it can cause vasodilation, which might lead to increased heat loss and potential hypothermia if not carefully monitored.