The charge nurse observes a newly hired nurse who is preparing to insert a nasogastric tube. Which action by the charge nurse takes priority?
Demonstrate correct measurement of the tube insertion length.
Remind the nurse to apply lubricant to the tube before insertion.
Confirm that the nurse has auscultated the client's bowel sounds.
Elevate the head of the bed before the nurse inserts the tube.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A
Demonstrating correct measurement of the tube insertion length is the first priority. Inserting a nasogastric tube to the appropriate length is crucial for ensuring that the tube reaches the stomach and is not inserted too far. Incorrect insertion length can lead to complications, discomfort, or potential harm to the patient. Therefore, demonstrating and ensuring the correct measurement of the tube insertion length takes priority.:
Choice B
Reminding the nurse to apply lubricant to the tube before insertion is not first priority. Applying lubricant helps ease the insertion process, but it is not the most critical step to prioritize initially.
Choice C
Confirming that the nurse has auscultated the client's bowel sounds is not the first priority. Bowel sounds assessment is important to ensure proper placement, but this step can be done after ensuring the correct measurement of the insertion length.
Choice D
Elevating the head of the bed before the nurse inserts the tube is not the first priority: Elevating the head of the bed helps facilitate the passage of the tube into the stomach, but it is not the first priority in this context.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A
High protein should be encouraged. The small reddened area on the coccyx is concerning for a potential pressure ulcer (also known as a pressure sore or bed sore). Pressure ulcers can occur when there is prolonged pressure on a specific area of the skin, often in individuals who are bedridden or have limited mobility. Adequate nutrition, including a high protein diet, is essential for preventing and promoting the healing of pressure ulcers. Protein is crucial for tissue repair and wound healing. A diet high in protein can aid in the recovery of damaged skin and promote the healing process. It helps to maintain and rebuild skin tissue, which is particularly important when dealing with potential pressure ulcers.
Choice B
High roughage should not be encouraged. While dietary fibre (roughage) is important for overall bowel health and regularity, it may not have a direct impact on wound healing in this context.
Choice C
Low cholesterol should not be encouraged. A low cholesterol diet is typically recommended to manage cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of heart disease. While overall health is important, cholesterol levels may not have a direct impact on wound healing in this case.
Choice D
Low salt should not be encouraged. A low salt diet is often recommended for individuals with certain medical conditions, such as hypertension or heart failure. While maintaining a balanced diet is important, salt intake may not be the primary concern when addressing wound healing.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A
Observing for abdominal distention is recommended. Gastric residual volume (GRV) is the amount of formula or food remaining in the stomach after a feeding through a gastric tube. A GRV of 325 mL is relatively high, and it's important to assess the client for signs of potential complications before contacting the healthcare provider. Observe for signs of abdominal distention, which could indicate that the stomach is not adequately emptying or that the feeding is not being tolerated well.
Choice B
Calculating 24-hour caloric intake is not recommended: While monitoring caloric intake is important for overall nutritional assessment, it does not address the immediate concern of a high GRV and the potential need for adjustment of the feeding rate or management.
Choice C
Measuring urinary output is not recommended: Urinary output is important to monitor for fluid balance, but it may not be directly related to the elevated GRV.
Choice D
Checking for body weight changes is not recommended: Monitoring body weight is essential for assessing nutritional status, but it may not provide immediate insights into the impact of the elevated GRV.
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