A nurse is caring for a client who requires an NG tube. After inserting the tube, the nurse tests the pH of the client's aspirate. Which of the following pH levels should the nurse identify as an indication of correct placement of the tube?
8.0
6.0
7.0
4.0
The Correct Answer is D
A. 8.0: An aspirate pH of 8.0 would indicate an alkaline substance. This would not be typical of stomach contents, which are acidic. An alkaline pH might suggest placement in the intestines or respiratory tract.
B. 6.0: While this is less alkaline than 8.0, it is still not within the typical range for stomach contents. Stomach aspirate is generally more acidic.
C. 7.0: A pH of 7.0 is neutral. Stomach contents are typically more acidic, so a neutral pH would not be consistent with correct NG tube placement in the stomach.
D. 4.0: This is within the acidic range and is consistent with the pH of stomach contents. It would be considered an indication of correct NG tube placement in the stomach.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Reposition the client every 2hr:
Regular repositioning helps redistribute pressure and prevent tissue damage. Turning the client every 2 hours is even better, especially for those at higher risk.
B. Elevate the head of the client's bed 45°:
Elevating the head of the bed can reduce pressure on the sacral area, which is a common site for pressure injuries. However, this alone is not sufficient, and regular repositioning should still be implemented.
C. Massage the client's bony prominences:
Massaging bony prominences can cause friction and shear, potentially increasing the risk of skin breakdown. This action is generally not recommended.
D. Provide the client with a high-calorie diet:
While proper nutrition is important for overall health, a high-calorie diet alone may not directly prevent pressure injuries. Adequate protein intake is particularly crucial for tissue repair and skin integrity.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. The nurse administers the feeding through a syringe barrel by gravity.
This is an appropriate method for administering intermittent tube feedings. Gravity feeding with a syringe allows for controlled delivery of the feeding solution.
B. The nurse allows the client to rest in a supine position during feeding.
Feeding a client in a supine position is generally acceptable, especially if the client is comfortable and doesn't experience complications. However, if there are specific contraindications or concerns for aspiration, the nurse should follow the prescribed position guidelines.
C. The nurse irrigates the NG tube with tap water after feeding.
Using tap water to irrigate an NG tube is not recommended, as it may lead to complications such as electrolyte imbalances. Sterile or distilled water should be used for irrigation.
D. The nurse initiates the feeding after aspirating 50 mL of gastric residual.
This is an appropriate action. Aspirating gastric residual before initiating a feeding helps assess the presence of gastric contents, ensuring that the client is ready to receive the feeding. However, specific institutional policies may dictate the threshold for gastric residual volume that requires intervention.
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