A nurse is preparing to instill 840 mL of enteral nutrition via a patient’s gastrostomy tube over 24 hours using an infusion pump.

How many mL/hr should the nurse set the infusion pump to deliver?

Choice A rationale

Using soap to clean the patient’s skin is not the best practice. Soap can dry out and irritate the skin, especially in patients with urinary incontinence. It can disrupt the skin’s natural pH balance and make it more susceptible to damage.

Choice B rationale

Applying a barrier cream to the patient’s skin is a recommended practice. Barrier creams provide a protective layer on the skin that can help prevent irritation from urine. They can also help to keep the skin moisturized, which is important for maintaining skin integrity.

Choice C rationale

Avoiding friction when drying the patient’s skin is crucial. Friction can cause further damage to the skin, especially in areas that are already irritated or broken down due to incontinence. It’s recommended to gently pat the skin dry rather than rubbing it.

Choice D rationale

Using warm water to clean the patient’s skin is a good practice. Warm water is less irritating to the skin than hot water and can help to cleanse the area without causing additional discomfort or damage.

Choice A rationale

Dehydration is a common finding in a patient who has had diarrhea for several days. Symptoms of dehydration can include dark-colored urine, excessive thirst, fatigue, dizziness, or light-headedness.

Choice B rationale

Diarrhea does not typically cause decreased bowel sounds.

Choice C rationale

A rigid abdomen is not a typical finding in a patient who has had diarrhea for several days.

Choice D rationale

Hypothermia is not a typical finding in a patient who has had diarrhea for several days.