A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a family member about how to position a client when administering enteral feedings at home. Which of the following statements from the family member should the nurse identify as an indication that he understands the instructions?

Correct answer: B

A. Check the gastric residual every 8 hr:
Explanation:It is generally recommended to check gastric residuals more frequently than every 8 hours, often every 4-6 hours, especially in the initial stages of continuous enteral feedings, to monitor tolerance and prevent complications such as aspiration.

B. Change the feeding bag every 24 hr:
Explanation: Changing the feeding bag and tubing at regular intervals helps prevent bacterial contamination and maintain aseptic technique. The frequency of bag changes is typically scheduled every 24 hours or according to facility protocols.

C. Flush the tube with sterile sodium chloride solution every 2 hr:
Explanation:While it is important to flush the feeding tube regularly to maintain patency, using sterile water is typically recommended unless there is a specific clinical indication for sterile sodium chloride. The frequency of flushing (usually every 4-6 hours for continuous feeding) should be determined based on the institution's protocol and the client's specific needs.

D. Position the head of the client's bed at 15 degrees:
Explanation:To reduce the risk of aspiration, the head of the bed should be elevated to at least 30-45 degrees during enteral feedings, not just 15 degrees. Elevating the head of the bed helps prevent reflux and aspiration.

A. Iron:
Function: Iron is essential for the formation of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. It is vital for oxygen transport and overall cellular function.
Relevance: Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, characterized by reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, resulting in fatigue, weakness, and other symptoms.

B. Magnesium:
Function: Magnesium is involved in various cellular processes, including muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, and bone health.
Relevance: While magnesium has important functions in the body, it is not directly involved in the transport of oxygen like iron.

C. Phosphorus:

Function: Phosphorus is a key component of DNA, RNA, and ATP, playing a role in energy metabolism, bone health, and acid-base balance.
Relevance: While important for cellular processes, phosphorus is not specifically linked to the transport of oxygen.

D. Potassium:
Function: Potassium is crucial for maintaining proper fluid balance, nerve impulses, and muscle contractions.
Relevance: Potassium is not directly involved in the transport of oxygen; its primary functions are related to electrolyte balance and cellular activities.