A nurse is administering continuous enteral feedings for a client through a percutaneous esophageal gastrostomy (PEG) tube. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Check gastric residuals every 8 hr.
Return gastric contents if residual is less than 250 mL.
Measure the pH of gastric residual every 24 hr.
Flush the tube with 15 mL of water every 4 hr.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Checking gastric residuals every 8 hr is not frequent enough, as it can miss signs of delayed gastric emptying, which can cause aspiration, nausea, vomiting, or abdominal distension. Gastric residuals should be checked every 4 hr.
Choice B reason: Returning gastric contents if residual is less than 250 mL is not advisable, as it can increase the risk of infection, contamination, or electrolyte imbalance. Gastric contents should be discarded if residual is more than 100 mL.
Choice C reason: Measuring the pH of gastric residual every 24 hr is not necessary, as it does not reflect the effectiveness or tolerance of the feeding. The pH of gastric residual should be checked before each feeding or every 6 to 8 hr to confirm tube placement and prevent misconnection.
Choice D reason: Flushing the tube with 15 mL of water every 4 hr is a correct action, as it can prevent clogging, maintain patency, and clear the tube of formula residue. Water should also be used to flush the tube before and after each medication administration.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: 1 cup of brown rice contains about 84 mg of potassium, which is low compared to other foods.
Choice B reason: One medium raw tomato contains about 292 mg of potassium, which is moderate compared to other foods.
Choice C reason: 1 oz of cheddar cheese contains about 28 mg of potassium, which is very low compared to other foods.
Choice D reason: One small baked potato contains about 738 mg of potassium, which is very high compared to other foods. Potassium is important for nerve and muscle function, but too much can cause irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness, and nausea.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Flushing the tubing with water every 4 hours can prevent the tubing from clogging by clearing any residual formula or medication from the lumen.
Choice B reason: Replacing the bag and tubing every 24 hours can prevent bacterial contamination, but it does not prevent the tubing from clogging.
Choice C reason: Administering the feeding by gravity drip can cause overfeeding, aspiration, or diarrhea, but it does not prevent the tubing from clogging.
Choice D reason: Heating the formula prior to infusion can cause bacterial growth, nutrient loss, or burns, but it does not prevent the tubing from clogging.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.