ATI Nutrition Proctored Exam 2019 Related

Review ATI Nutrition Proctored Exam 2019 related questions and content

A nurse is initiating continuous enteral feedings for a client who has a new gastrostomy tube. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

  • A. Measure the client's gastric residual every 12 hours.
  • B. Obtain the client's electrolyte levels every 4 hours.
  • C. Keep the client's head elevated at 15° during feedings.
  • D. Flush the client's tube with 30 mL of water every 4 hours.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Flushing the client's tube with 30 mL of water every 4 hours is essential to maintain tube patency and prevent blockages. This action helps ensure the continuous flow of enteral feedings without obstruction. Measuring the client's gastric residual every 12 hours (Choice A) is important but not the priority when initiating enteral feedings. Obtaining the client's electrolyte levels every 4 hours (Choice B) is unnecessary and not directly related to tube feeding initiation. Keeping the client's head elevated at 15° during feedings (Choice C) is a good practice to prevent aspiration, but tube flushing is more crucial to prevent tube occlusion.