A nurse is assisting in monitoring a client who is receiving a tube feeding. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as the priority?

Temperature 38.2° C (100.8° F)

Hematocrit 45%

Respiratory rate 12/min

Urine specific gravity 1.015

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A.   This temperature is slightly elevated (normal range is typically around 36.5-37.5°C or 97.7-99.5°F). While a mild temperature elevation could indicate infection or other underlying issues, it may not be immediately critical unless accompanied by other symptoms such as chills, increased heart rate, or signs of respiratory distress.
B.   Hematocrit measures the proportion of red blood cells in the blood. A hematocrit of 45% is within the normal range for adults. However, changes in hematocrit levels over time can indicate fluid balance issues

or nutritional status, which are important to monitor but may not be an acute priority unless significantly abnormal.
C.   A respiratory rate of 12 breaths per minute is within the normal range for adults. However, it's essential to consider if this rate is stable or if there are signs of respiratory distress such as increased effort or decreased oxygen saturation. Respiratory status should always be closely monitored, but a normal rate alone is not a priority concern.
D.   Urine specific gravity measures the concentration of urine and can indicate hydration status. A specific gravity of 1.015 is within the normal range for urine concentration. However, changes in urine output or specific gravity can provide insights into fluid balance and renal function over time.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Clamping the chest tubes is contraindicated because it can lead to tension pneumothorax, a life- threatening condition where air accumulates in the pleural space under pressure. If the chest tube becomes disconnected, the nurse should immediately place the end of the tube in sterile water to maintain the water seal and prevent air from entering the pleural space.
B. The drainage container must always be kept below the level of the client's chest. This position allows gravity to facilitate drainage from the pleural space into the collection chamber. If the container is positioned above the client's chest, drainage could potentially flow back into the pleural space, leading to complications.
C. It is essential to monitor and record the amount and characteristics of drainage regularly. Emptying the collection container at least once every shift ensures accurate measurement of drainage output and helps in assessing the client's response to treatment.
D. The water-seal chamber of the chest drainage system maintains the desired amount of suction (usually
-20 cm H2O) to facilitate lung re-expansion. This chamber should be filled with sterile water to the recommended level, usually marked on the device. Adding tap water can introduce contaminants and should be avoided.

A. The nurse allows the client to rest in a supine position during feeding. B. The nurse irrigates the NG tube with tap water after feeding. C. The nurse administers the feeding through a syringe barrel by gravity. D. The nurse initiates the feeding after aspirating 50 mL of gastric residual.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Administering tube feedings while the client is in a supine (flat on their back) position can increase the risk of aspiration. Ideally, clients should be positioned upright or at a 30-45 degree angle during and after tube feedings to reduce the risk of reflux and aspiration.
B. Flushing the NG tube with tap water after feeding is just a standard practice to prevent clogging and maintain tube patency.

C. Administering tube feedings by gravity using a syringe barrel is an appropriate method. This allows for controlled and slow administration of the feeding solution, minimizing the risk of overfeeding or complications.
D. Aspirating gastric residual before initiating tube feedings is a standard practice to assess the amount of residual contents in the stomach. However, the amount of residual aspirate that warrants intervention can vary based on institutional policies and the client's condition.

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A nurse is assisting in monitoring a client who is receiving a tube feeding. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as the priority?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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Correct Answer is A

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A nurse is assisting in monitoring a client who is receiving a tube feeding. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as the priority?