A nurse is caring for a patient receiving enteral nutrition via a gastrostomy tube. Which actions should the nurse take to prevent complications associated with enteral feeding?
(Select All that Apply.)
Use sterile water to flush the tube before and after feeding.
Lower the head of the bed to 15 degrees to facilitate feeding.
Change the feeding bag and tubing every 24 hours.
Check for residual volume before each feeding
Add crushed medications to the enteral formula for convenience.
Administer the feeding in a continuous cycle over 24 hours.
Correct Answer : C,D
A. Using sterile water is recommended for flushing the tube before and after feeding, but it is not the most critical step in preventing complications.
B. Lowering the head of the bed to 15 degrees during feeding may increase the risk of aspiration, as a higher elevation is typically recommended.
C. Changing the feeding bag and tubing every 24 hours helps prevent bacterial contamination and reduces the risk of infection.
D. Checking for residual volume before each feeding helps ensure that the stomach is empty, reducing the risk of aspiration.
E. Adding crushed medications to the enteral formula is not recommended, as it can alter the formula's absorption and cause clogging of the tube.
F. Administering the feeding in a continuous cycle over 24 hours is typically done for certain patients, but it is not essential to prevent complications in all cases.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Iron deficiency anemia typically presents with a low MCV, not an elevated MCV, and it is less likely to be associated with the symptoms of glossitis and peripheral neuropathy.
B. Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia is a likely diagnosis in this patient. Chronic alcohol use can lead to malabsorption of vitamin B12, which contributes to macrocytic anemia (high MCV). Symptoms like glossitis and peripheral neuropathy are common in B12 deficiency.
C. Thalassemia minor usually presents with microcytic anemia and would not typically cause the elevated MCV or neurological symptoms seen in this patient.
D. Anemia of chronic disease typically presents with a normal or low MCV and is not associated with elevated MCV or the neurological symptoms seen in this patient.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. High-intensity weight-bearing exercises can exacerbate pain in patients with osteoarthritis and is not appropriate for alleviating knee stiffness.
B. Calcium and vitamin D supplementation is important for bone health, but it will not directly address the pain and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis.
C. Avoiding physical activity is not recommended for osteoarthritis; instead, moderate exercise can help improve joint function.
D. Applying heat therapy to the affected joints before engaging in physical activity is an effective method for alleviating stiffness and promoting mobility. Heat helps relax muscles and improve blood flow to the affected area.
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.