The nurse is assessing a client experiencing acute pain.
What assessments should validate the client with acute pain? Select all that apply.

This is because the pH of gastric contents is acidic (less than 5.5) and can indicate that the tube is in the stomach. This method is predictive of the correct placement of a nasogastric tube.

Choice A is wrong because fluoroscopy is not the most reliable method to confirm the correct placement of a nasogastric tube. It is an imaging technique that uses X-rays to show the movement of the tube, but it is not always available or feasible.

Choice C is wrong because injecting air and listening for gurgling sounds is not a reliable method to confirm the correct placement of a nasogastric tube. It can cause false-positive results and does not differentiate between the stomach and the respiratory tract.

Choice D is wrong because observing for bubbles after placing the end of the tube in a cup of water is not a reliable method to confirm the correct placement of a nasogastric tube. It can also cause false-positive results and does not differentiate between the stomach and the respiratory tract.

The correct answers are Choices A, B, C, and D.Choice A rationale:Inspection of lips and mucous membranes is a vital assessment technique for hydration status. Dryness or cracking of the lips and mucous membranes can indicate dehydration, as these areas are often affected by fluid loss. Observing these features helps healthcare providers assess the client's hydration level effectively.Choice B rationale:Pinching the skin on the back of the hand tests skin turgor, which is a reliable indicator of hydration status. If the skin does not return to its normal position quickly after being pinched, it suggests decreased skin elasticity due to dehydration. This method provides a quick visual and tactile assessment of fluid levels in the body.Choice C rationale:Measuring pulse and blood pressure is essential in evaluating hydration status. Changes in blood pressure (especially orthostatic hypotension) and pulse rate can indicate fluid volume changes in the body. An increased heart rate may suggest dehydration, while low blood pressure can indicate significant fluid loss.Choice D rationale:Obtaining the client's daily weight is a crucial method for monitoring hydration status. Weight fluctuations can provide insight into fluid retention or loss over time. A sudden decrease in weight may indicate dehydration, while an increase could suggest fluid overload or retention issues.Choice E rationale:Palpating scalp and hair distribution is not a common or effective method for assessing hydration status. While scalp condition may reflect overall health, it does not provide direct information about hydration levels compared to other methods listed.