The following arterial blood gas results would demonstrate to the nurse that the client is experiencing which acid-base imbalance? pH 7.31 PaCO2 40, HCO3 18, pa02 92

C. This is a critical initial step before administering enteral feedings. Aspirating stomach contents helps confirm the placement of the nasogastric tube in the stomach rather than the respiratory tract. Checking the pH of the aspirate can further confirm gastric placement, as gastric fluid typically has an acidic pH (usually less than 5). This step ensures that the feeding will be delivered to the correct location, minimizing the risk of aspiration.
A. While it's important for the formula to be at an appropriate temperature for administration to prevent discomfort or complications such as cramping, this is not typically the first action to take. It can be done concurrently with other preparatory steps.
B. Proper labeling of the feeding container is essential for patient safety and adherence to institutional policies. However, this is not the first action to be completed. It's usually done after preparing the feeding and confirming the tube placement.
D. Assessing residual volume involves checking for any residual contents in the stomach from previous feedings. This step helps determine how much of the previous feeding remains in the stomach and whether it's safe to administer the next feeding. However, it typically follows confirming tube placement, as it's essential to know the tube is in the correct position before assessing residual volume.

D. This is the most appropriate technique for evaluating the success of teaching a client a psychomotor skill. A return demonstration involves the client independently performing the skill they have been taught while the nurse observes. This allows the nurse to assess the client's ability to execute the skill correctly, including aspects such as technique, coordination, and safety precautions. Additionally, the nurse can provide immediate feedback and correction if necessary, enhancing the client's learning experience.
A. While answering oral questions can assess the client's understanding of theoretical or conceptual knowledge, it may not effectively evaluate their ability to perform a psychomotor skill. Psychomotor skills involve physical actions and coordination, which cannot be adequately assessed through verbal responses alone.
B. Participating in a discussion group can facilitate sharing of experiences and perspectives among clients, but it may not be the most effective method for evaluating the client's ability to perform a psychomotor skill. Discussion groups are more suitable for exploring attitudes, beliefs, and understanding of concepts rather than assessing physical skills.
C. Written tests typically assess cognitive understanding and retention of information rather than the ability to perform psychomotor skills. While written tests can evaluate knowledge about the steps involved in a skill, they do not directly assess the client's ability to execute the skill itself.