A nurse is preparing to administer enteral feedings to a client with a nasogastric (NG) tube. What action should the nurse take first?
- A. Measure the residual gastric volume
- B. Verify tube placement
- C. Flush the tube with 100 mL of water
- D. Administer the feeding in small boluses
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Verifying tube placement is the crucial initial step a nurse should take before administering enteral feedings through an NG tube. This step ensures that the tube is correctly positioned in the stomach, reducing the risk of complications such as aspiration. Measuring residual gastric volume, flushing the tube with water, or administering the feeding in small boluses are all important steps in enteral feeding but should only be done after confirming the correct tube placement.
You may also like to solve these questions
A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client with a new diagnosis of hypertension. What instruction should the nurse include?
- A. Reduce sodium intake to 4 grams per day
- B. Avoid foods high in potassium
- C. Take prescribed antihypertensive medications daily
- D. Limit fluid intake to 1 liter per day
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Take prescribed antihypertensive medications daily.' When providing discharge teaching to a client with hypertension, one of the key instructions is to ensure the consistent intake of prescribed antihypertensive medications. This is crucial for controlling blood pressure levels and reducing the risk of complications associated with hypertension. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because reducing sodium intake, avoiding foods high in potassium, and limiting fluid intake are important dietary modifications for various health conditions, but they are not the priority when it comes to managing hypertension. The primary focus should be on medication adherence to effectively manage hypertension.
A nurse is assessing the IV infusion site of a client who reports pain at the site. The site is red, and there is warmth along the course of the vein. What is the nurse's priority action?
- A. Flush the IV line with saline
- B. Discontinue the infusion
- C. Elevate the limb
- D. Apply a cold compress
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is to discontinue the infusion. The symptoms described - pain, redness, and warmth along the vein - are indicative of phlebitis, which is inflammation of the vein. Continuing the infusion can lead to further complications. Flushing the IV line, elevating the limb, or applying a cold compress do not address the underlying issue of phlebitis and may not be sufficient to resolve the problem. Therefore, the priority action is to discontinue the infusion to prevent worsening of the condition.
When teaching a client about the correct use of a cane, what should the nurse include?
- A. Hold the cane on the weaker side
- B. Ensure the cane has a rubber tip
- C. Keep the cane on the dominant side
- D. Use the cane only on stairs
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. When instructing a client on the use of a cane, it is essential to ensure that the cane has a rubber tip. This rubber tip helps prevent slipping, providing additional stability and safety. Option A, holding the cane on the weaker side, is incorrect as the cane should be held on the stronger side to provide better balance and support. Option C, keeping the cane on the dominant side, is also incorrect because the cane should be held on the stronger side. Option D, using the cane only on stairs, is not comprehensive as the cane can be used for support and balance while walking on level ground as well.
A client with diabetes mellitus is being taught about foot care by a nurse. Which instruction should the nurse include?
- A. Cut toenails straight across
- B. Wear shoes at all times
- C. Apply lotion between the toes
- D. Soak feet in hot water daily
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is to 'Wear shoes at all times.' This instruction is crucial for preventing foot injuries in clients with diabetes mellitus. Wearing shoes protects the feet from potential injuries and reduces the risk of developing foot ulcers. Cutting toenails straight across (not in a rounded shape) helps prevent ingrown toenails. Applying lotion between the toes can create a moist environment, increasing the risk of fungal infections. Soaking feet in hot water daily can lead to dry skin and potentially cause burns, which is not recommended for individuals with diabetes.
A nurse is providing discharge teaching for a client with a prescription for home oxygen therapy. Which instruction should the nurse include?
- A. Increase the oxygen flow rate when shortness of breath occurs
- B. Keep oxygen tubing away from heat sources
- C. Wear synthetic fabrics to prevent static
- D. Turn off the oxygen when not in use
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct instruction for a client with home oxygen therapy is to keep oxygen tubing away from heat sources to prevent fires and other hazards. Option A is incorrect because adjusting the oxygen flow rate without healthcare provider guidance can be dangerous. Option C is incorrect as synthetic fabrics can generate static electricity, which is a fire hazard. Option D is incorrect as oxygen should be left on as prescribed unless advised otherwise.