NCLEX RN Exam Prep Related

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A healthcare professional is preparing to administer an enteral feeding through a gastrostomy tube. Before administering the feeding, the healthcare professional aspirates some stomach contents and checks the pH. The result is 3.9. What is the next action of the healthcare professional?

  • A. Administer the feeding as ordered
  • B. Pull the feeding tube out approximately 3 cm
  • C. Flush the feeding tube with 60 cc of water
  • D. Contact the physician
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: When the pH of the aspirated stomach contents is 4 or less, it indicates that the gastrostomy tube is in the stomach, confirming correct placement. A pH of 3.9 falls within this range, so the healthcare professional can proceed with administering the enteral feeding. There is no need to adjust the tube placement, flush with water, or contact the physician in this situation as the tube is appropriately positioned for feeding.