A nurse in a provider's office is reviewing data from a client's medical record. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease?

Choice A Reason:

Verifying the bilirubin level of the tube contents is incorrect. Measuring bilirubin levels in the tube contents is not a standard or reliable method for confirming tube placement. It's not an established or recommended technique for this purpose.

Choice B Reason:

Auscultating for air insufflation is incorrect. Auscultation for air insufflation involves injecting air into the tube and listening for bubbling sounds over the stomach area. While this method is commonly used, it can sometimes yield inconsistent or inconclusive results, especially in patients with certain conditions or situations where air movement might not be detectable.

Choice C Reason:

Request a chest x-ray is correct. Obtaining a chest x-ray is the most reliable method to confirm the placement of a feeding tube, especially when the tube is newly inserted or if there are any doubts about its location. A chest x-ray can accurately visualize the position of the tube within the gastrointestinal tract, ensuring it is in the intended location before any feedings or medications are administered.

Choice D Reason:

Checking the pH level of gastric contents is incorrect. Measuring the pH level of aspirated gastric contents can provide information about the acidity of the fluid, indicating gastric placement (pH below 5) in most cases. However, the pH can be influenced by various factors like medications, enteral feeding solutions, or certain medical conditions, making it less reliable than a chest x-ray for definitive confirmation of tube placement.

Choice A Reason:

Measuring the intake and output of a client who has received furosemide is correct. This task involves recording and measuring fluid intake and output, which is typically within the scope of practice for assistive personnel. It requires accurate documentation and doesn't involve making clinical judgments.

Choice B Reason:

Reinforcing teaching with a client about crutch-gait walking is incorrect. Teaching and instructing clients about specific medical procedures or techniques usually require specialized knowledge and assessment skills, typically within the nurse's scope of practice.

Choice C Reason:

Checking a client's peripheral IV site for redness or swelling is incorrect. Assessing for redness or swelling at an IV site involves clinical judgment and assessment skills to identify potential complications. This task is better suited for a licensed nurse who can interpret findings and take appropriate action if needed.

Choice D Reason:

Assessing the pain level of a client who has received acetaminophen is incorrect. Assessing pain levels involves subjective interpretation and understanding of pain scales, which generally falls under the scope of licensed healthcare providers who can evaluate and manage pain interventions based on assessments.