The nurse observes a client demonstrate self-administration of an 80 mL bolus feeding through a gastrostomy tube (GT). The client pours 40 mL of formula into a feeding syringe and allows the solution to flow in by gravity. When the syringe is completely empty, the client adds an additional 40 mL of the formula, followed by 50 mL of water. Which instruction should the nurse provide to the client?

Add the second portion of the feeding before the syringe is completely empty.

Use 25 mL of water between the two portions of the feeding to flush the GT.

Raise the syringe barrel higher to increase the flow rate of the bolus feeding.

Flush the tube with 50 mL of water between the two portions of the feeding.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A.   This instruction is not recommended because adding the second portion of the feeding before the syringe is empty can lead to inconsistent feeding rates and potential complications, such as overloading the stomach with too much formula at once.
B.   Flushing the GT with water between portions of feeding is a good practice to prevent clogging and to ensure that all formula is delivered. However, 25 mL of water is generally not enough; standard practice typically involves using 30 to 60 mL of water for effective flushing. This option is close but not as specific as the recommended volume.
C.   Raising the syringe barrel can increase the flow rate of the feeding, but this approach should be used with caution. Rapid flow can cause gastrointestinal discomfort or cramping. The primary focus should be on ensuring proper flushing and administration rather than manipulating the flow rate in this way.
D.   This option is the best practice because flushing the GT with 50 mL of water between portions of the feeding helps to clear any remaining formula from the tube and prevents clogging. Proper flushing also helps ensure that the entire dose of formula is delivered and maintains tube patency.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Reporting the findings to the healthcare provider is crucial in this situation. The combination of fever and dyspnea could indicate a serious complication such as aspiration pneumonia or an infection related to the tube feeding. Prompt communication with the healthcare provider ensures that the client receives timely evaluation and treatment.
B. While monitoring electrolytes is important in the context of tube feedings (to ensure proper balance and prevent imbalances), the symptoms of fever and dyspnea are more urgent concerns that need immediate attention.
C. Using an incentive spirometer can be beneficial for improving lung function and preventing complications like atelectasis, especially if the client has respiratory issues. However, this action is more appropriate for clients who have specific respiratory therapy needs and is not the first step in addressing acute symptoms like fever and dyspnea, which require a more immediate response.
D. Connecting the tube to low intermittent suction might be used to manage gastric residuals or to help with gastrointestinal decompression in some situations, but it does not address the acute symptoms of fever and dyspnea.

A. Determine which member of the nursing staff brought the cup of coffee to the client. B. Consult with the dietician to learn if the client is allowed to drink coffee. C. Remove the coffee from the tray, advising the client that it is not included in the diet. D. Remind the client that no milk or creamer can be added to the coffee.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. While it’s important to understand how the coffee ended up on the tray, determining which staff member made the mistake does not address the immediate issue of ensuring the client’s diet is appropriate. The priority should be to correct the dietary error and ensure that the client receives only what is appropriate for their diet.
B. Consulting with a dietician could provide clarity on dietary restrictions and allowances. However, if the client is on a clear liquid diet, coffee is typically not included because it may have additives (like milk or creamer) or may not be considered suitable for the clear liquid diet.
C. Coffee, unless specified as permissible, generally does not meet the criteria for a clear liquid diet due to its potential to be mixed with non-clear substances and its stimulant properties. Removing the coffee and informing the client of the dietary restriction ensures that the client adheres to the prescribed diet and avoids potential complications or issues with their treatment.
D. This action is not suitable for a clear liquid diet. Coffee itself is typically not allowed on a clear liquid diet, regardless of whether milk or creamer is added. This choice does not address the fundamental issue of the coffee being inappropriate for the client’s diet.

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Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client who has a continuous tube feeding develops a fever and reports experiencing dyspnea. Which action should the nurse implement?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

The nurse observes that a client on a clear liquid diet has a cup of coffee on the breakfast tray. Which action should the nurse implement?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

After an IV antibiotic is started, the nurse determines that the medication is not prescribed for the client and stops the infusion. Which action should the nurse implement next?

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While cleansing a client's surgical incision, the nurse observes the incision as seen in the picture. How should the nurse document the appearance of the incision?

A client has a total serum calcium level of 7.0 mg/dL (1.75 mmol/L). Based on this information, which action is most important for the nurse to include while measuring the client's vital signs? Reference Range: Total Calcium (9 to 10.5 mg/dL (2.25 to 2.62 mmol/L)]

The nurse has agreed to serve as a client's advocate at the meeting of the hospital ethics committee, which was called to address an ethical dilemma involving the client. To successfully represent the client, what action is essential for the nurse to take?

The client is receiving a liter of 0.9% sodium chloride with potassium chloride (KCI) 30 mEq IV to infuse over 4 hours. Which nursing action has the highest priority for this client?