Before delivering a drug through an enteral tube, it is most important for the nurse to do which of the following FIRST?
Instill 5 ml of water to rinse the tube.
Check the tube placement.
Lay the client flat.
Assess the client's bowel sounds.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Instilling water to rinse the tube is an important step after medication administration or prior to administering incompatible medications, but it is not the initial and most crucial step before delivering any drug. Placement verification is paramount.
Choice B rationale
Scientifically, confirming tube placement is the absolute first and most critical step before administering any substance, including medication, through an enteral tube. Misplaced tubes can lead to aspiration pneumonia or inefficient drug absorption, posing significant patient safety risks.
Choice C rationale
Laying the client flat may increase the risk of aspiration, especially if the tube is misplaced or if the client has impaired gag reflex. Proper positioning, typically semi-Fowler's, is crucial for safe enteral feeding and medication administration.
Choice D rationale
Assessing bowel sounds is important for evaluating gastrointestinal motility and absorption capacity before initiating or continuing enteral feedings, but it is not the primary immediate safety check required before administering a single dose of medication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["180"]
Explanation
Step 1 is: Convert grains to milligrams using the conversion factor 1 grain = 60 mg. 3 gr × 60 mg/gr = 180 mg. Final calculated answer: 180 mg
Correct Answer is ["75"]
Explanation
Step 1 is 1.5 L × 1000 mL/L = 1500 mL.
Step 2 is 1500 mL ÷ 20 hours = 75 mL/hour.
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