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. Registered dietitian: A dietitian can assess nutritional needs and recommend appropriate diets based on swallowing ability, but they do not directly evaluate or treat swallowing disorders. Their role becomes relevant after the dysphagia has been assessed and a safe diet established.

B. Respiratory therapist: Respiratory therapists focus on managing breathing and airway clearance, which can be important if aspiration pneumonia occurs. However, they do not assess or treat the swallowing difficulties themselves.

C. Speech-language pathologist: Speech-language pathologists evaluate and treat swallowing disorders as well as communication impairments following stroke. They perform swallowing assessments and develop individualized therapy plans to improve swallowing safety and function.

D. Occupational therapist: Occupational therapists assist clients with regaining independence in activities of daily living but do not specialize in swallowing assessments or treatments. Their focus is more on motor skills, cognition, and adaptive strategies.

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.