A nurse is planning care for a client who has a decreased level of consciousness. The client is receiving continuous enteral feedings via a gastrostomy tube due to an inability to swallow. Which of the following is the priority action by the nurse?
Observe the client's respiratory status.
Monitor intake and output every 8 hr.
Elevate the head of the client's bed 30° to 45°.
Check residual volume every 4 to 6 hr.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Observing the client's respiratory status is also important, but it is an ongoing assessment rather than an immediate action.
B. Monitoring intake and output every 8 hours is important for overall fluid balance, but it is not the top priority in this situation.
C. This is crucial to prevent aspiration, which can occur if the feeding formula enters the lungs, leading to pneumonia or other serious complications. Elevating the head of the bed helps keep the esophagus above the stomach, reducing the risk of aspiration.
D. Checking residual volume every 4 to 6 hours is a part of enteral feeding care, but it is not the top priority. Monitoring respiratory status takes precedence due to the potential risk of aspiration.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Inguinal canal is not the correct location for assessing the posterior tibial pulse. This area is associated with the femoral pulse.
B. The knee is not the correct location for assessing the posterior tibial pulse. This area is not directly related to the posterior tibial pulse.
C. The lower third of the tibia, anterior aspect is the correct location for palpating the posterior tibial pulse. This pulse can be found on the inside of the ankle, slightly below and behind the medial malleolus.
D. Dorsal aspect of the foot is where the dorsalis pedis pulse is located, not the posterior tibial pulse.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
Rationale A: Assisting a client to ambulate using a gait belt is a task within the scope of practice for assistive personnel. It involves physical support and monitoring, which do not require the advanced training of a registered nurse. This task ensures the client's safety while promoting mobility.
Rationale B: Reviewing a low-sodium diet is not within the scope of practice for assistive personnel as it requires nutritional knowledge and the ability to teach, which are responsibilities of a registered nurse or a dietitian.
Rationale C: Feeding a client who had a stroke 3 months ago can be delegated to assistive personnel. This task does not require the clinical judgment of a nurse and can be performed following a predefined plan of care.
Rationale D: Bathing a client who had an amputation 2 days ago can be delegated to assistive personnel. They are trained to assist with activities of daily living, including bathing, while ensuring the client's safety and comfort.
Rationale E: Explaining oral hygiene to a client receiving chemotherapy involves patient education and understanding of the specific needs related to the client's condition, which are beyond the role of assistive personnel. This task requires the expertise of a nurse or other healthcare professional.
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