A nurse is preparing to administer an enteral feeding to a patient with a gastrostomy tube. Before starting the feeding, which of the following actions should the nurse take to ensure patient safety?
Administer the feeding solution directly from the refrigerator.
Flush the tube with 10 mL of cold water
Position the patient supine at 30 degrees.
Verify the pH of gastric aspirate is less than 5.0.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Administering feeding solution directly from the refrigerator can cause discomfort to the patient and increase the risk of gastric upset.
B. Flushing the tube with cold water is not appropriate, as it may irritate the stomach and cause discomfort.
C. Positioning the patient supine at 30 degrees is unsafe, as it increases the risk of aspiration. The patient should be at a higher angle, typically 30-45 degrees.
D. Verifying the pH of gastric aspirate is crucial to ensure the feeding tube is in the correct position and to prevent aspiration of feeding material into the lungs.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Administering an anti-diarrheal medication as prescribed might help control the symptoms, but it is important to address the underlying cause of the diarrhea first, such as adjusting the feeding.
B. Increasing water flushes may help with hydration, but it does not specifically address the diarrhea caused by the enteral feeding. It's more important to manage the feeding itself.
C. Switching the feeding method to bolus feeding could increase the risk of aspiration and discomfort. Continuous feeding is generally safer and better tolerated in this context.
D. Decreasing the feeding rate and consulting the dietitian for a fiber-enriched formula is the most appropriate response. Adjusting the feeding rate can help reduce gastrointestinal upset, and a fiber- enriched formula can help firm up stools.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Sunbathing is not a significant factor that worsens MS symptoms. In fact, moderate exposure to sunlight may benefit people with MS by helping them get Vitamin D, which is believed to have protective effects.
B. Flying is not a common factor that exacerbates MS symptoms. However, the change in pressure can sometimes be uncomfortable for individuals with MS, but it doesn't typically worsen the condition.
C. Working in an office is not a factor known to worsen MS symptoms. The environment of an office typically does not contribute to symptom exacerbation, though stress or lack of mobility can have an indirect impact.
D. High altitude travel can worsen MS symptoms for some individuals. The decreased oxygen levels and low pressure at high altitudes can lead to increased fatigue, shortness of breath, or dizziness, which may exacerbate MS-related symptoms.
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