A nurse is caring for a client who has an NG tube due to an intestinal obstruction. Using the nursing process for clinical decision making, which of the following actions should the nurse take to maintain NG patency?

Place the client on his right side if tube resistance occurs.

Check the tube patency every 4 hr.

Flush the tube with 50 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride irrigation every 8 hr.

Maintain the client in a supine position.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A) Place the client on his right side if tube resistance occurs: Positioning the client on the right side can help facilitate gastric emptying, but it is not a primary action to ensure NG tube patency. If tube resistance occurs, the nurse should assess and address the resistance more directly.

B) Check the tube patency every 4 hr: Regularly checking the tube patency ensures that the NG tube remains open and functional, preventing blockages and ensuring continuous decompression or feeding as required.

C) Flush the tube with 50 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride irrigation every 8 hr: Flushing the tube helps maintain patency, but the amount and frequency may vary based on facility protocols. Flushing every 8 hours might not be frequent enough to prevent blockages.

D) Maintain the client in a supine position: Keeping the client in a supine position is not recommended for maintaining NG tube patency and may increase the risk of aspiration. A semi-Fowler's position is usually preferred to promote drainage and reduce aspiration risk.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A) Dyspepsia:
Dyspepsia, or indigestion, is a common symptom of peptic ulcer disease, causing discomfort in the upper abdomen. While it is uncomfortable and should be managed, it is not immediately life-threatening and does not require urgent intervention compared to other symptoms.

B) Nausea:
Nausea can be a distressing symptom associated with peptic ulcer disease, often resulting from irritation of the stomach lining. Although it can significantly impact the client’s well-being and appetite, it is not as critical as symptoms indicating active bleeding or more severe complications.

C) Hyperactive bowel sounds:
Hyperactive bowel sounds may be present in peptic ulcer disease due to increased gastrointestinal activity. This finding suggests heightened digestive activity but does not indicate an immediate life-threatening condition that would take precedence over signs of active bleeding.

D) Hematemesis:
Hematemesis, or vomiting blood, is a serious and potentially life-threatening symptom that indicates active gastrointestinal bleeding. This requires immediate medical attention to prevent significant blood loss, shock, and other complications. It is the priority finding because it poses the most immediate risk to the client’s health and stability.

A. Position the cast on a plastic-covered pillow. B. Perform neurovascular checks every 2 hr. C. Instruct the client to avoid moving the fingers on the left hand. D. Touch the cast with the palms of the hands when moving the client.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A) Position the cast on a plastic-covered pillow:
Positioning the cast on a plastic-covered pillow is not recommended because the plastic can trap moisture and heat, potentially affecting the cast's integrity as it dries. Instead, a soft, absorbent material should be used to support the cast.

B) Perform neurovascular checks every 2 hr:
Frequent neurovascular checks are essential to monitor for complications such as compartment syndrome, nerve damage, or impaired circulation. This action helps ensure that any changes in sensation, movement, or circulation are identified and addressed promptly.

C) Instruct the client to avoid moving the fingers on the left hand:
Encouraging the client to move their fingers is important to prevent stiffness and swelling and to promote circulation. Instructing the client to avoid moving their fingers is not appropriate and could lead to complications.

D) Touch the cast with the palms of the hands when moving the client:
Handling a wet plaster cast with the palms of the hands is correct to prevent indentations and pressure points that could cause skin irritation or pressure sores. However, this action is not as critical as performing frequent neurovascular checks to ensure the client's safety and monitor for complications.

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A nurse is caring for a client who has an NG tube due to an intestinal obstruction. Using the nursing process for clinical decision making, which of the following actions should the nurse take to maintain NG patency?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is assessing a client who has peptic ulcer disease. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as the priority?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A nurse is caring for a client who just had a left long-arm plaster cast applied after experiencing a musculoskeletal trauma. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Correct Answer is B

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