A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who is 12 hr postpartum and has an episiotomy. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

a. Oil-based lubricant

Explanation:

The correct answer is a. Oil-based lubricant.

When preparing to insert a nasogastric tube for gastric decompression, the nurse should obtain an oil- based lubricant. Lubricating the nasogastric tube before insertion helps facilitate smooth passage through the nasal passages and into the stomach, reducing discomfort and potential trauma to the client.

Option b, an enteric feeding pump, is not necessary for the insertion of a nasogastric tube for gastric decompression. An enteric feeding pump is used for administering enteral feedings, which is a different procedure and indication

Option c, sterile gloves, may be needed depending on the facility's policy and the specific circumstances of the client. While maintaining aseptic technique is important during the procedure, sterile gloves may not always be required for nasogastric tube insertion. Clean gloves or a clean hand hygiene practice may be sufficient in some cases.

Option d, pH strips, are not typically needed for nasogastric tube insertion for gastric decompression. pH strips are more commonly used to check the acidity or alkalinity of body fluids, such as gastric aspirate, to confirm placement of the nasogastric tube in the stomach.

By obtaining an oil-based lubricant, the nurse ensures the appropriate preparation for the nasogastric tube insertion, promoting the client's comfort and safety during the procedure.

The charge nurse should explain to the assistive personnel (AP) that one of the responsibilities of a licensed practical nurse (LPN) is providing direct client care. LPNs work under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and are trained to deliver basic nursing care to clients. This includes tasks such as administering medications, monitoring vital signs, dressing wounds, assisting with activities of daily living (ADLs), and reporting any changes in the client's condition to the RN.

The other options are not typically within the scope of practice for an LPN:

a. Coordinating client care: The coordination of client care is primarily the responsibility of the RN. While LPNs may contribute to the coordination of care by providing input and collaborating with the healthcare team, the overall coordination is usually managed by the RN.

c. Assessing a client's health status: Assessing a client's health status is a role primarily performed by RNs. LPNs may gather data and contribute to the assessment process, but the comprehensive assessment and interpretation of data is typically the responsibility of the RN.

d. Identifying specific client health problems: Identifying specific client health problems and formulating nursing diagnoses is part of the RN's role. LPNs may assist in collecting data and providing input, but the identification and formulation of nursing diagnoses are within the scope of practice of the RN.