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.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Standing 1.8 m (6 feet) away from the client is not sufficient for airborne precautions.
Proper respiratory protection is required, such as an N95 mask.
B. Allowing the client to ambulate in the hall is not a specific action related to airborne precautions. If the client needs to leave their room, they should wear a mask to prevent the spread of airborne particles.
C. A positive-pressure airflow room is not typically required for airborne precautions.
However, ensuring proper ventilation in the room is important.
D. Airborne precautions are required for clients with illnesses that spread via small droplets or dust particles that can remain in the air for extended periods. This includes diseases like tuberculosis, chickenpox, and measles. The nurse should wear an N95 respirator mask to provide protection against inhaling these particles.
Correct Answer is ["A","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Keeping the client's bed in the lowest position helps minimize the potential fall distance if the client attempts to get out of bed.
B. Assessing the client every 4 hours is a good practice for general monitoring but may not be specific to fall prevention. More frequent assessments may be necessary for a client at high risk for falls.
C. Keeping the client's room dark at night can actually increase the risk of falls. It's important to ensure there is adequate lighting to help the client navigate safely.
D. Teaching the client to use the call light allows them to request assistance when needed, reducing the likelihood of attempting to move or get out of bed independently.
E. Placing a fall-risk identification band on the client's wrist helps alert all healthcare providers that the client is at risk for falls. This information is crucial for ensuring appropriate precautions are taken.
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