ATI Gastrointestinal System Related

Review ATI Gastrointestinal System related questions and content

The nurse develops a plan of care for a client with a T tube. Which one of the following nursing interventions should be included?

  • A. Inspect skin around the T tube daily for irritation.
  • B. Irrigate the T tube every 4 hours to maintain patency.
  • C. Maintain the client in a supine position while the T tube is in place.
  • D. Keep the T tube clamped except during mealtimes.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct nursing intervention to include in the plan of care for a client with a T tube is to inspect the skin around the T tube daily for irritation. Bile is erosive and can cause skin irritation, so it is crucial to keep the skin clean and dry. T tubes are not routinely irrigated; irrigation is done only with a physician's order. It is unnecessary to maintain the client in a supine position; instead, assist the client into a position of comfort. T tubes are not typically clamped unless ordered by a physician, and if clamped, it is usually done 1 to 2 hours before and after meals.