A nurse is caring for a patient with a nasogastric (NG) tube and tests the pH of the secretions to verify correct placement of the tube.
What pH reading should the nurse expect?

Choice A rationale

While a patient’s medication history can impact wound healing, in this case, there is no specific information provided about the patient’s medications that would suggest a delay in wound healing.

Choice B rationale

Although the patient’s cholesterol level is elevated, hyperlipidemia is not typically associated with delayed wound healing.

Choice C rationale

Prealbumin is a marker of nutritional status. A low prealbumin level, like in this patient, could indicate malnutrition, which can delay wound healing. Adequate nutrition is essential for wound healing as it provides the necessary building blocks for tissue repair.

Choice D rationale

The patient’s fasting glucose level is within the normal range, so it is unlikely to impact wound healing. While poorly controlled diabetes can delay wound healing, this patient’s diabetes appears to be well-controlled.

Choice A rationale

A stoma may appear red and moist immediately after surgery, similar to the inside of the mouth. A purplish color could indicate a lack of blood supply to the stoma, which is a medical emergency.

Choice B rationale

A small amount of bleeding around the stoma is normal, especially when cleaning the area or changing the ostomy appliance. This is because the stoma contains blood vessels and has a rich blood supply.

Choice C rationale

Fecal output from a colostomy can be expected within 2 to 4 days after surgery. It is not typical to see output within 24 hours.

Choice D rationale

An increase in the intake of raw vegetables is not necessary after a colostomy. In fact, some people may find certain raw vegetables difficult to digest and they may cause gas or odor.