A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who is planning to complete a living will. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

A. Check the client's gastric residual: After confirming tube placement, gastric residual is assessed to evaluate delayed gastric emptying, which could increase the risk of aspiration. This is done before administering medications or feedings.

B. Verify the tube placement: Tube placement is verified first to ensure the medication is delivered into the stomach and not the lungs. This prevents aspiration and other complications associated with incorrect tube placement.

C. Pour the medication into the syringe and allow it to flow by gravity: Once placement is confirmed and residual checked, the medication is administered via gravity through the syringe to minimize pressure on the NG tube and promote safe delivery.

D. Clamp the NG tube for 20 to 30 min: After administering the medication, the NG tube is clamped to allow for medication absorption before suction is resumed. Immediate suctioning would remove the medication before it can take effect.

A. Ask the assistive personnel to document the client's time of death: Documenting the time of death is a critical nursing responsibility and should be done by the nurse or healthcare provider, not delegated to assistive personnel. Accurate documentation is essential for legal and medical records, especially when an autopsy is planned.

B. Wear sterile gloves when cleaning the client's body: Sterile gloves are not necessary for routine postmortem care; clean gloves are sufficient. Sterile gloves are reserved for invasive procedures to prevent infection, whereas postmortem care focuses on hygiene and respect for the deceased.

C. Place an identification tag on the outside of the client's shroud: Proper identification of the deceased is crucial, especially when an autopsy is required. Placing an identification tag on the shroud ensures correct identification during transport and handling, preventing misidentification and maintaining respect for the client.

D. Remove the client's dentures and give them to the client's family: Dentures should typically remain in the client's mouth during postmortem care to preserve facial structure and appearance. Removing them can alter the deceased’s appearance, which may be distressing to the family and is generally avoided unless specifically requested.