A patient has been admitted for surgery for a colostomy. The patient states, "I can't believe this has happened to me." What is the nurse's best response?

A) Asking the client to cough while inserting the NG tube:
This action is not necessary and may not be appropriate during the insertion of an NG tube. Coughing can increase the risk of gagging and aspiration during the procedure.

B) Wearing sterile gloves to insert the NG tube:
While the nurse should maintain appropriate hand hygiene, wearing sterile gloves is not typically necessary for the insertion of an NG tube. Clean gloves are sufficient for this procedure.

C) Placing the client into a left lateral position before inserting the NG tube:
Positioning the client in a high Fowler's position (sitting upright) or semi-Fowler's position is generally preferred for NG tube insertion to facilitate tube passage into the esophagus and reduce the risk of aspiration. Placing the client in a left lateral position is not typically done for NG tube insertion.

D) Determining the length of the NG tube to be inserted prior to the procedure:
This is the correct action. Before inserting the NG tube, the nurse should measure the distance from the tip of the client's nose to the earlobe and then from the earlobe to the xiphoid process or the mark on the NG tube corresponding to the desired insertion length. This helps ensure that the tube is inserted to the appropriate depth and reaches the desired location within the gastrointestinal tract.

A) Viral infection:
Chronic stress can suppress the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections, including viral infections. Prolonged stress can dysregulate the immune response, leading to increased vulnerability to various illnesses.

B) Increased cognitive awareness:
Chronic stress often impairs cognitive function rather than enhancing it. It can lead to difficulties with concentration, memory problems, and cognitive fatigue due to the continuous activation of the body's stress response system.

C) Hypotension:
Chronic stress typically leads to increased blood pressure rather than hypotension. Stress activates the sympathetic nervous system, resulting in the release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which can elevate blood pressure over time.

D) Increased energy:
While acute stress can trigger a temporary surge in energy due to the release of stress hormones, chronic stress often leads to fatigue and exhaustion. Prolonged activation of the stress response system can deplete energy reserves and disrupt sleep patterns, resulting in feelings of fatigue and lethargy.