Which symptom experienced by a client receiving a continuous enteral feeding via a nasogastric tube requires priority follow-up by the nurse?
The client has frequent coughing spells.
The client reports mild abdominal cramps.
The client has high-pitched bowel sounds.
The client reports one to two soft bowel movements per day.
The Correct Answer is A
This is because coughing can indicate aspiration of the feeding into the lungs, which can lead to pneumonia and other serious complications. Aspiration is reported in up to 89% of patients receiving nasogastric tube feeding.
Therefore, the nurse should prioritize assessing the client for signs of aspiration and ensuring proper tube placement.
Choice B is wrong because mild abdominal cramps are a common side effect of nasogastric tube feeding and do not require immediate intervention unless they are severe or persistent.
Choice C is wrong because high-pitched bowel sounds are normal and indicate peristalsis and digestion.
They do not indicate a problem with the tube feeding.
Choice D is wrong because one to two soft bowel movements per day are desirable and indicate adequate nutrition and hydration.
They do not indicate a problem with the tube feeding.
Normal ranges for gastric residual volume are less than 200 mL for adults and less than 100 mL for children. Normal ranges for pH of gastric aspirate are 1 to 5.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
This is because non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are medicines that are used to treat rheumatoid arthritis by reducing pain, inflammation, and swelling.
However, NSAIDs do not slow down the disease progression or prevent joint
damage. Therefore, they are often used along with other types of medications, such as methotrexate or biologics, that can modify the disease course. NSAIDs may take up to two weeks to reach their full anti-inflammatory effect.
Choice A is wrong because using aspirin to relieve other types of pain can increase the risk of bleeding and stomach ulcers when taken with NSAIDs.
Choice C is wrong because taking the medication on an empty stomach can increase the risk of stomach irritation and ulcers.
Choice D is wrong because taking the medication after exercising does not prevent the progression of disease or joint damage.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This is because immobilizing the wrist prevents kinking or dislodgement of the intravenous catheter and reduces the risk of complications such as infiltration, phlebitis, or infection.
Some additional information for the response are:
Choice A is wrong because placing the arm across the client’s chest may compromise venous return and increase the risk of thrombosis.
Choice B is wrong because using a wrist restraint may cause skin breakdown, nerve damage, or impaired circulation.
Choice D is wrong because instructing the client to limit use the of that arm may not be sufficient to prevent catheter movement or accidental removal.
Normal ranges for venous access depend on the type and location of the catheter, but some general values are: potassium (3 to 5 mEq/L), blood urea nitrogen (10 to 20 mg/dL), and central venous pressure (8 to 12 mmHg).
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today