The practical nurse (PN) is providing instructions to the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) preparing to give a total bed bath to an immobile client who has continuous feeding via a gastrostomy tube (GT). Which instruction is most important for the PN to emphasize?
Report any drainage observed around the GT insertion site.
Use plenty of pillows to position the client on the side after bathing.
Keep the head of the bed raised while the tube feeding is infusing.
Raise the entire bed while bathing the client to reduce back strain.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Reporting any drainage observed around the gastrostomy tube insertion site is important for monitoring potential infection or complications; however, it is not the most immediate concern during a total bed bath.
B. While using plenty of pillows to position the client on the side after bathing is important for comfort and skin integrity, it does not address the safety of the feeding during the bath.
C. Keeping the head of the bed raised while the tube feeding is infusing is the most critical instruction. This position helps prevent aspiration and ensures that the feeding is administered safely while maintaining the client’s airway during the bathing process.
D. Raising the entire bed while bathing the client is helpful for the caregiver's ergonomics but does not take precedence over ensuring the client’s safety regarding the gastrostomy tube feeding.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Using a cushion when sitting may provide comfort, but it does not directly address the client's elevated blood pressure or changes in mental status related to chronic kidney disease (CKD).
B. Weighing every morning is crucial in managing CKD, particularly with elevated blood pressure, as it helps monitor fluid retention, which can indicate worsening kidney function or fluid overload. This intervention is essential for assessing the client's condition and adjusting treatment as needed.
C. Performing range of motion exercises is important for maintaining mobility, especially in an immobile client; however, it does not directly address the pressing issues of elevated blood pressure and altered mental status.
D. Documenting abdominal girth can be important for assessing fluid retention, but it is less immediate than daily weight monitoring for a client with CKD showing significant symptoms.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This is the action that the PN should take prior to giving digoxin to a 2-month-old infant whose heart rate is 120 beats/minute. Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside that is used to treat heart failure and arrhythmias. It has a narrow therapeutic range and can cause serious side effects such as bradycardia, hypotension, and toxicity. Therefore, it is important to monitor the client's vital signs before and after administering the medication. A normal heart rate for a 2-month-old infant is 100–190 beats/minute, so 120 beats/minute is within the normal range and does not indicate a need to hold the medication. The PN should administer the medication as prescribed and document the heart rate and any other relevant findings.
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