HESI Fundamentals Practice Exam Related

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Which assessment data would provide the most accurate determination of proper placement of a nasogastric tube?

  • A. Aspirating gastric contents to assure a pH value of 4 or less.
  • B. Hearing air pass in the stomach after injecting air into the tubing.
  • C. Examining a chest x-ray obtained after the tubing was inserted.
  • D. Checking the remaining length of tubing to ensure that the correct length was inserted.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The most accurate method to confirm the proper placement of a nasogastric tube is by examining a chest x-ray obtained after the tubing was inserted. This visual assessment allows healthcare providers to directly visualize the position of the tube in relation to anatomical landmarks, ensuring it is correctly placed in the stomach. Aspirating gastric contents or hearing air pass may provide some information but are not as definitive as a chest x-ray for confirming placement. Checking the remaining length of tubing is not a reliable method for determining proper placement as it does not indicate where the tip of the tube lies within the body.