NSG 330 Ch 44- Digestive & GI Treatment Modalities

Semi-Fowler position is maintained for at least which timeframe following completion of an intermittent tube feeding?

1 hour Explanation: The semi-Fowler position is necessary for a nasogastric (NG) feeding, with the client's head elevated at least 30 to 45 degrees to reduce the risk for reflux and pulmonary aspiration. This position is maintained for at least 1 hour after completion of an intermittent tube feeding and is maintained at all times for clients receiving continuous tube feedings.

You are caring for a patient who was admitted to have a low-profile gastrostomy device (LPGD) placed. How soon after the original gastrostomy tube placement can an LPGD be placed?

2 to 3 months An alternative to the PEG device is a low-profile gastrostomy device (LPGD). LPGDs may be inserted 2 to 3 months after initial gastrostomy tube placement.

A patient is receiving continuous tube feedings via a small bore feeding tube. The nurse irrigates the tube after administering medication to maintain patency. Which size syringe would the nurse use?

30-mL Explanation: When small-bore feeding tubes for continuous tube feedings are used and irrigated after administration of medications, a 30-mL or larger syringe is necessary, because the pressure generated by smaller syringes could rupture the tube.

A patient is receiving a continuous tube feeding. The nurse notes that the feeding tube was last irrigated at 2 p.m. The nurse would plan to irrigate the tube again at which time?

6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Explanation: The recommendation is to irrigate the feeding tube of patients receiving continuous tube feedings every 4 to 6 hours. For this patient, the nurse would irrigate the tube next at 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

A nurse is caring for a patient who has an order to discontinue the administration of parenteral nutrition. What should the nurse do to prevent the occurrence of rebound hypoglycemia in the patient?

Administer an isotonic dextrose solution for 1 to 2 hours after discontinuing the PN. After administration of the PN solution is gradually discontinued, an isotonic dextrose solution is administered for 1 to 2 hours to protect against rebound hypoglycemia. The other listed actions would likely cause hyperglycemia.

The nurse is caring for a patient who has dumping syndrome from high-carbohydrate foods being administered over a period of fewer than 20 minutes. What is a nursing measure to prevent or minimize the dumping syndrome?

Administer the feeding with the patient in semi-Fowler's position to decrease the effect of gravity on transit time. Explanation: The following strategies may help prevent some of the uncomfortable signs and symptoms of dumping syndrome related to tube feeding: Advise the patient to remain in semi-Fowler's position for 1 hour after the feeding; this position prolongs intestinal transit time by decreasing the effect of gravity. Slow the formula instillation rate to provide time for carbohydrates and electrolytes to be diluted. Administer feedings at room temperature, not at a warm temperature, because temperature extremes stimulate peristalsis. Administer feeding by continuous drip (if tolerated), rather than by bolus, to prevent sudden distention of the intestine. Instill the minimal amount of water needed to flush the tubing before and after a feeding, not to dilute the formula but because fluid given with a feeding increases intestinal transit time.

The nurse is preparing to administer orlistat to a client with obesity. Which safety warning(s) should the nurse consider when administering this medication to the client? Select all that apply.

Administer with meals, stagger administration with other drugs. Provide a vitamin supplement with the medication. Monitor liver function. Explanation: The safety warnings that the nurse should consider include administering orlistat with meals and staggering administration with other drugs, the requirement of vitamin supplementation due to nonabsorption of nutrients, and monitoring liver function. Avoiding caffeine and avoiding the use of the medication among clients with heart disease, hypertension, and hyperthyroidism are applicable to appetite suppressants such as benzphetamine, diethylpropion, phendimetrazine, and phentermine, not orlistat.

A client is recovering from percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube placement. The nurse

Administers an initial bolus of 50 mL water Explanation: The first fluid nourishment may consist of water, saline, or 10% dextrose. This may be administered as a bolus of 30 to 60 mL. By the second day, formula feeding may begin. A gauze dressing is applied between the tube insertion site and the gastrostomy tube. The dressing is changed daily or as needed. The nurse gently manipulates the stabilizing disk daily to prevent skin breakdown.

The nurse is inserting a nasogastric tube for a patient with pancreatitis. What intervention can the nurse provide to allow facilitation of the tube insertion?

Allow the patient to sip water as the tube is being inserted. Explanation: During insertion, the patient usually sits upright with a towel or other protective barrier spread in a biblike fashion over the chest. The nostril may be swabbed or the oropharynx sprayed with an anesthetic agent to numb the nasal passage and suppress the gag reflex. The tip of the patient's nose is tilted upward, and the tube is aligned to enter the nostril. When the tube reaches the nasopharynx, the patient is instructed to lower the head slightly and, if able, to begin to swallow as the tube is advanced. The patient may also be encouraged to sip water through a straw to facilitate advancement of the tube if this action is not contraindicated.

A patient with dysphagia is scheduled for PEG tube insertion and asks the nurse how the tube will stay in place. What is the nurses best response?

An internal retention disc secures the tube against the stomach wall. A PEG tube is held in place by an internal retention disc (flange) that holds it against the stomach wall. It is not held in place by stitches or adhesives

A patients NG tube has become clogged after the nurse instilled a medication that was insufficiently crushed. The nurse has attempted to aspirate with a large-bore syringe, with no success. What should the nurse do next?

Attach a syringe filled with warm water and attempt an in-and-out motion of instilling and aspirating. When a tube is first noted to be clogged, a 30- to 60-mL syringe should be attached to the end of the tube and any contents aspirated and discarded. Then the syringe should be filled with warm water, attached to the tube again, and a back-and-forth motion initiated to help loosen the clog. Removal is not warranted at this early stage and a flicking motion is not recommended. The tube should not be withdrawn, even a few centimeters.

A client is receiving a parenteral nutrition admixture that contains carbohydrates, electrolytes, vitamins, trace minerals, and sterile water and is now scheduled to receive an intravenous fat emulsion (Intralipid). What is the best action by the nurse?

Attaches the fat emulsion tubing to a Y connector close to the infusion site Explanation: An intravenous fat emulsion is attached to a Y connector close to the infusion site. The fat emulsion is administered simultaneously with the parenteral nutrition admixture. A separate peripheral IV site is not necessary. The fat emulsion is not administered through a filter.

A nonresponsive client has a nasogastric tube to low intermittent suction due to gastrointestinal bleeding. It is most important for the nurse to

Auscultate lung sounds every 4 hours. Explanation: Pulmonary complications may occur as a result of nasogastric intubation. It is a high priority according to Maslow's hierarchy of needs and takes a higher priority over assessing the nose, changing nasal tape, or applying a water-based lubricant.

The primary source of microorganisms for catheter-related infections are the skin and which of the following?

Catheter hub Explanation: The primary sources of microorganisms for catheter-related infections are the skin and the catheter hub. The catheter site is covered with an occlusive gauze dressing that is usually changed every other day.

A nurse is aware of the high incidence of catheter-related bloodstream infections in patients receiving parenteral nutrition. What nursing action has the greatest potential to reduce catheter-related bloodstream infections?

Change the dressing no more than weekly The CDC (2011) recommends changing CVAD dressings not more than every 7 days unless the dressing is damp, bloody, loose, or soiled. Sterile technique (not clean technique) is used. Irrigation and antibiotic ointments are not used.

A patient has been discharged home on parenteral nutrition (PN). Much of the nurses discharge education focused on coping. What must a patient on PN likely learn to cope with? Select all that apply.

Changes in lifestyle Loss of eating as a social behavior Sleep disturbances related to frequent urination during nighttime infusions Patients must cope with the loss of eating as a social behavior and with changes in lifestyle brought on by sleep disturbances related to frequent urination during night time infusions. PN is not associated with bowel incontinence and the patient does not select or adjust the formulation of PN.

A nurse is providing home care to a client receiving intermittent tube feedings. The client wants to take an over-the-counter allergy medication. The medication would need to be given via feeding tube because the client has difficulty swallowing. The nurse checks the medication and finds that it is a timed-release tablet. Which action by the nurse would be most appropriate?

Check with the pharmacy for an alternative formulation for the drug. Explanation: Timed-release medications should not be crushed. Rather, the nurse should check with the pharmacy to see if another formulation (e.g., liquid) is available that can be used safely with a feeding tube. Dissolving the tablet in water, like crushing it, would affect the drug's action, possibly releasing too much of the drug too quickly. Stating that the client cannot take the drug anymore is inappropriate. A change in formulation or possibly a change to another drug in an appropriate formulation would be appropriate.

The nurse is administering total parenteral nutrition (TPN) to a client who underwent surgery for gastric cancer. Which of the nurses assessments most directly addresses a major complication of TPN?

Checking the patients capillary blood glucose levels regularly The solution, used as a base for most TPN, consists of a high dextrose concentration and may raise blood glucose levels significantly, resulting in hyperglycemia. This is a more salient threat than hunger, though this should be addressed. Dysrhythmias and decreased LOC are not among the most common complications.

A patients health decline necessitates the use of total parenteral nutrition. The patient has questioned the need for insertion of a central venous catheter, expressing a preference for a normal IV. The nurse should know that peripheral administration of high-concentration PN formulas is contraindicated because of the risk for what complication?

Chemical phlebitis Formulations with dextrose concentrations of more than 10% should not be administered through peripheral veins because they irritate the intima (innermost walls) of small veins, causing chemical phlebitis. Hyperglycemia and line sepsis are risks with both peripheral and central administration of PN. PN is not associated with dumping syndrome.

The nurse is caring for a group of clients. Which client(s) would be a candidate for total parenteral nutrition (TPN)? Select all that apply.

Child with short bowel syndrome Middle-aged man with acute pancreatitis Man with two-thirds of his colon removed Explanation: Indications for parenteral nutrition include short bowel syndrome, acute pancreatitis, and extensive bowel surgery. Gastroenteritis and superficial burns would not be indications for parenteral nutrition.

If a client's central venous catheter accidentally becomes disconnected, what should a nurse do first?

Clamp the catheter. Explanation: If a central venous catheter becomes disconnected, the nurse should immediately apply a catheter clamp. If a clamp isn't available, the nurse may place a sterile syringe or catheter plug in the catheter hub. After cleaning the hub with alcohol or povidone-iodine solution, the nurse must replace the I.V. extension set and restart the infusion. Calling the physician, applying a dry sterile dressing to the site, and telling the client to take a deep breath aren't appropriate interventions at this time.

A nurse is creating a care plan for a patient who is receiving parenteral nutrition. The patients care plan should include nursing actions relevant to what potential complications? Select all that apply.

Clotted or displaced catheter Pneumothorax Hyperglycemia Line sepsis Common complications of PN include a clotted or displaced catheter, pneumothorax, hyperglycemia, and infection from the venous access device (line sepsis). Dumping syndrome applies to enteral nutrition, not PN.

A patients new onset of dysphagia has required insertion of an NG tube for feeding; the nurse has modified the patients care plan accordingly. What intervention should the nurse include in the patients plan of care?

Confirm placement of the tube prior to each medication administration. Each time liquids or medications are administered, and once a shift for continuous feedings, the tube must be checked to ensure that it remains properly placed. If the NG tube is used for decompression, it is attached to intermittent low suction. During the placement of a nasogastric tube the patient should be positioned in a Fowlers position. Oral fluid administration is contraindicated by the patients dysphagia.

A nurse administered a full strength feeding with an increased osmolality through a jejunostomy tube to a client. Immediately following the feeding, the client expelled a large amount of liquid brown stool and exhibited a blood pressure of 86/58 and pulse rate of 112 beats/min. The nurse

Consults with the physician about decreasing the feeding to half-strength Explanation: The osmolality of normal body fluids is 300 mOsm/kg. A feeding with a higher osmolality may cause dumping syndrome. The client may report a feeling of fullness, nausea, or both and may exhibit diarrhea, hypotension, and tachycardia. The nurse needs to take steps to prevent dumping syndrome. Increasing the amount of the feeding, administering the feeding at an extreme temperature, or increasing the osmolality of the feedings will continue dumping syndrome. The nurse needs to decrease the osmolality of the feeding as in administering a half-strength solution.

A nurse is preparing to administer a patients scheduled parenteral nutrition (PN). Upon inspecting the bag, the nurse notices that the presence of small amounts of white precipitate are present in the bag. What is the nurses best action?

Contact the pharmacy to obtain a new bag of PN. Before PN infusion is administered, the solution must be inspected for separation, oily appearance (also known as a cracked solution), or any precipitate (which appears as white crystals). If any of these are present, it is not used. Warming or shaking the bag is inappropriate and unsafe.

A nurse providing care to a patient who is receiving nasogastric tube feedings finds that the tube is clogged. Which of the following is no longer considered appropriate to use to unclog the tube?

Cranberry juice Explanation: To unclog a feeding tube, air insufflation, digestive enzymes mixed with warm water, or a commercial enzyme product could be used. Cola and cranberry juice are no longer advocated for use in clearing a clogged tube.

A nurse is caring for a client receiving parenteral nutrition at home. The client was discharged from the acute care facility 4 days ago. What would the nurse include in the client's plan of care? Select all that apply.

Daily weights Intake and output monitoring Calorie counts for oral nutrients Explanation: For the client receiving parenteral nutrition at home, the nurse would obtain daily weights initially, decreasing them to two to three times per week once the client is stable. Intake and output monitoring also is necessary to evaluate fluid status. Calorie counts of oral nutrients are used to provide additional information about the client's nutritional status. Transparent dressings are changed weekly. Activity is encouraged based on the client's ability to maintain muscle tone. Strict bedrest is not appropriate.

Prior to a patients scheduled jejunostomy, the nurse is performing the preoperative assessment. What goal should the nurse prioritize during the preoperative assessment?

Determining the patients ability to understand and cooperate with the procedure The major focus of the preoperative assessment is to determine the patients ability both to understand and cooperate with the procedure. Body image, nutritional needs, and postoperative care are all important variables, but they are not the main focuses of assessment during the immediate preoperative period.

The nurse is caring for a client receiving enteral nutrition with a standard polymeric formula. For which reason will the nurse question using this formula for the client?

Diagnosed with malabsorption syndrome Explanation: Various tube feeding formulas are available commercially. Polymeric formulas are the most common and are composed of protein (10% to 15%), carbohydrates (50% to 60%), and fats (30% to 35%). Standard polymeric formulas are undigested and require that the client has relatively normal digestive function and absorptive capacity. This type of formula should be questioned because the client is diagnosed with malabsorption syndrome. There is no reason to question the client for a history of diverticulitis, treatment for internal hemorrhoids, or removal of polyps.

A nurse is assessing a client receiving tube feedings and suspects dumping syndrome. What would lead the nurse to suspect this? Select all that apply.

Diarrhea Tachycardia Diaphoresis Explanation: Dumping syndrome is manifested by hypotension, diarrhea, tachycardia, and diaphoresis. The client often reports a feeling of fullness, nausea, and vomiting. Because of the rapid movement of water to the stomach and intestines, bowel sounds would most likely be increased.

A patient receiving tube feedings is experiencing diarrhea. The nurse and the physician suspect that the patient is experiencing dumping syndrome. What intervention is most appropriate?

Dilute the concentration of the feeding solution Dumping syndrome can generally be alleviated by starting with a dilute solution and then increasing the concentration of the solution over several days. Fluid replacement may be necessary but does not prevent or treat dumping syndrome. There is no need to aspirate stomach contents. Increasing the rate will exacerbate the problem.

A client receiving tube feedings to the duodenum develops nausea, cramping, and diarrhea. For which condition should the nurse plan care for this client?

Dumping syndrome Explanation: Osmolality is an important consideration for clients receiving tube feedings through the duodenum or jejunum because feeding formulas with a high osmolality may lead to undesirable effects. When a concentrated solution of high osmolality entering the stomach is taken in quickly or in large amounts, the small intestines expand and water moves rapidly into the intestinal lumen from fluid surrounding the organs and the vascular compartment. The client may have feelings of fullness, nausea, cramping, dizziness, diaphoresis, and osmotic diarrhea, which indicates dumping syndrome. The client's symptoms are not caused by a diverticulosis, paralytic ileus, or a small bowel obstruction.

A patients enteral feedings have been determined to be too concentrated based on the patients development of dumping syndrome. What physiologic phenomenon caused this patients complication of enteral feeding?

Entry of large amounts of water into the small intestine because of osmotic pressure When a concentrated solution of high osmolality entering the intestines is taken in quickly or in large amounts, water moves rapidly into the intestinal lumen from fluid surrounding the organs and the vascular compartment. This results in dumping syndrome. Dumping syndrome is not the result of changes in HCl or gastrin levels. It is not caused by an acidbase imbalance or direct irritation of the GI mucosa.

A patient is receiving nasogastric tube feedings. The intake and output record for the past 24 hours reveals an intake of 3100 mL and an output of 2400 mL. The nurse identifies which nursing diagnosis as most likely?

Excess fluid volume Explanation: The patient's intake and output record reflects a greater intake than output, suggesting excess fluid volume. No information suggests that the patient's nutritional balance is at risk, even with nasogastric tube feedings. Deficient fluid volume would be appropriate if the patient's output exceeded input. No information indicates that the patient is experiencing difficulty with urination.

A client has been receiving intermittent tube feedings for several days at home. The nurse notes the findings as shown in the accompanying documentation. The nurse reports the following as an adverse reaction to the tube feeding:

Fasting blood glucose level Explanation: An adverse reaction to tube feedings is an elevated blood glucose level. The physical assessment data and renal function and liver function studies are normal.

The nurse assesses a patient who recently had a nasoenteric intubation. Symptoms of oliguria, lethargy, and tachycardia in the patient would indicate to the nurse what common complication?

Fluid volume deficit Explanation: Symptoms of fluid volume deficit include dry skin and mucous membranes, decreased urinary output, lethargy, lightheadedness, hypotension, and increased heart rate.

The nurse is to discontinue a nasogastric tube that had been used for decompression. What is the first action the nurse should take?

Flush with 10 mL of water. Explanation: Before a nasogastric tube is removed, the nurse flushes the tube with 10 mL of water or normal saline to ensure that the tube is free of debris and away from the gastric tissue. The tape keeps the tube in the correct position while flushing is occurring and is then removed from the nose. The nurse then withdraws the tube gently for 6 to 8 inches until the tip reaches the esophagus, and then the remainder of the tube is withdrawn rapidly from the nostril. After the tube is removed, the nurse provides oral hygiene.

A nurse is providing care for a patient with a diagnosis of late-stage Alzheimers disease. The patient has just returned to the medical unit to begin supplemental feedings through an NG tube. Which of the nurses assessments addresses this patients most significant potential complication of feeding?

Frequent lung auscultation Aspiration is a risk associated with tube feeding; this risk may be exacerbated by the patients cognitive deficits. Consequently, the nurse should auscultate the patients lungs and monitor oxygen saturation closely. Bowel function is important, but the risk for aspiration is a priority. Hemorrhage is highly unlikely and the patients abdominal girth is not a main focus of assessment.

Gastrostomy feedings are preferred to nasogastric feedings in the comatose patient, because the:

Gastroesophageal sphincter is intact, lessening the possibility of regurgitation and aspiration. Explanation: Gastrostomy is preferred over NG feedings in the patient who is comatose because the gastroesophageal sphincter remains intact. Regurgitation and aspiration are less likely to occur with a gastrostomy than with NG feedings.

The nurse is caring for a comatose patient and administering gastrostomy feedings. What does the nurse understand is the reason that gastrostomy feedings are preferred to nasogastric (NG) feedings in the comatose patient?

Gastroesophageal sphincter is intact, lessening the possibility of regurgitation. Explanation: Gastrostomy is preferred over NG feedings in the patient who is comatose because the gastroesophageal sphincter remains intact, making regurgitation and aspiration less likely.

A client has a gastrointestinal tube that enters the stomach through a surgically created opening in the abdominal wall. The nurse documents this as which of the following?

Gastrostomy tube Explanation: A gastrostomy tube enters the stomach through a surgically created opening into the abdominal wall. A jejunostomy tube enters jejunum or small intestine through a surgically created opening into the abdominal wall. A nasogastric tube passes through the nose into the stomach via the esophagus. An orogastric tube passes through the mouth into the stomach.

The nurse is caring for a patient who is postoperative from having a gastrostomy tube placed. What should the nurse do on a daily basis to prevent skin breakdown?

Gently rotate the tube. The nurse verifies the tubes placement and gently rotates the tube once daily to prevent skin breakdown. Verifying tube placement and taping the tube to the abdomen do not prevent skin breakdown. A gastrostomy wound does not have a wet-to-dry dressing.

The following appears on the medical record of a male patient receiving parenteral nutrition:WBC: 6500/cu mm, Potassium 4.3 mEq/L, Magnesium 2.0 mg/dL, Calcium 8.8 mg/dL, Glucose 190 mg/dL. Which finding would alert the nurse to a problem?

Glucose level Explanation: Of the values listed, only the glucose level is above normal, indicating hyperglycemia, a potential complication of parenteral nutrition.

Residual content is checked before each intermittent tube feeding. The patient would be reassessed if the residual, on two occasions, was:

Greater than 200 mL. Explanation: Research demonstrates that residual volumes of less than 200 mL appear to be well tolerated without risk of aspiration.

A patient is receiving parenteral nutrition. The current solution is nearing completion, and a new solution is to be hung, but it has not arrived from the pharmacy. Which action by the nurse would be most appropriate?

Hang a solution of dextrose 10% and water until the new solution is available. Explanation: The infusion rate of the solution should not be increased or decreased; if the solution is to run out, a solution of 10% dextrose and water is used until the next solution is available. Having someone go to the pharmacy would be appropriate, but there is no way to determine if the person will arrive back before the solution runs out. Starting another infusion would be inappropriate. Additionally, the infusion needs to be maintained through the central venous access device to maintain patency.

The management of the patients gastrostomy is an assessment priority for the home care nurse. What statement would indicate that the patient is managing the tube correctly?

I flush my tube with water before and after each of my medications. Frequent flushing is needed to prevent occlusion, and should not just be limited to times of medication administration. Alcohol will irritate skin surrounding the insertion site and activity should be maintained as much as possible

A client with Crohn's disease is losing weight. For which reason will the nurse anticipate the client being prescribed parenteral nutrition?

Impaired ability to absorb food Explanation: A client with Crohn's disease will have an impaired ability to ingest or absorb food orally or enterally. Clients with severe burns, malnutrition, short-bowel syndrome, AIDS, sepsis, and cancer would need parenteral nutrition because of insufficient oral intake. Unwillingness to ingest nutrients orally would cause a client with a major psychiatric illness to need parenteral nutrition. Prolonged surgical nutritional needs such as what occurs after extensive bowel surgery or acute pancreatitis would necessitate the need for parenteral nutrition.

A critical care nurse is caring for a patient diagnosed with acute pancreatitis. The nurse knows that the indications for starting parenteral nutrition (PN) for this patient are what?

Inability to take in adequate oral food or fluids within 7 days The indications for PN include an inability to ingest adequate oral food or fluids within 7 days. Weight loss, muscle wasting combined with electrolyte imbalances, and aspiration indicate a need for nutritional support, but this does not necessary have to be parenteral.

A nurse is caring for a patient who is receiving parenteral nutrition. When writing this patients plan of care, which of the following nursing diagnoses should be included?

Ineffective Role Performance Related to Parenteral Nutrition The limitations associated with PN can make it difficult for patients to maintain their usual roles. PN does not normally cause bowel incontinence and catheters are not associated with chronic pain or neurovascular dysfunction.

The client is receiving a 25% dextrose solution of parenteral nutrition. The infusion machine is beeping, and the nurse determines the intravenous (IV) bag is empty. The nurse finds there is no available bag to administer. What is the priority action by the nurse?

Infuse a solution containing 10% dextrose and water. Explanation: If the parenteral nutrition solution runs out, a solution of 10% dextrose and water is infused to prevent hypoglycemia. The nurse would then order the next parenteral nutrition bag from the pharmacy. Flushing a peripherally inserted catheter is usually prescribed every 8 hours or per hospital established protocols. It is not the most important activity at this moment. The infusion rate should not be increased to compensate for fluids that were not infused, because hyperglycemia and hyperosmolar diuresis could occur.

A nurse is initiating parenteral nutrition (PN) to a postoperative patient who has developed complications. The nurse should initiate therapy by performing which of the following actions?

Initiating the infusion slowly and monitoring the patients fluid and glucose tolerance PN solutions are initiated slowly and advanced gradually each day to the desired rate as the patients fluid and glucose tolerance permits. The formulation of the PN solutions is calculated carefully each day to meet the complete nutritional needs of the individual patient based on clinical findings and laboratory data. It is not infused more quickly at mealtimes.

A nurse is preparing to administer a patients intravenous fat emulsion simultaneously with parenteral nutrition (PN). Which of the following principles should guide the nurses action?

Intravenous fat emulsions may be infused simultaneously with PN through a Y-connector close to the infusion site and should not be filtered. Intravenous fat emulsions may be infused simultaneously with PN through a Y-connector close to the infusion site and should not be filtered. The patient does not need another intravenous line for the fat emulsion. The IVFE cannot be piggy-backed into any existing IV solution that is infusing.

The nurse is managing a gastric (Salem) sump tube for a patient who has an intestinal obstruction and will be going to surgery. What interventions should the nurse perform to make sure the tube is functioning properly?

Keep the vent lumen above the patient's waist to prevent gastric content reflux. Explanation: The blue vent lumen should be kept above the patient's waist to prevent reflux of gastric contents through it; otherwise, it acts as a siphon.

A patient is concerned about leakage of gastric contents out of the gastric sump tube the nurse has just inserted. What would the nurse do to prevent reflux gastric contents from coming through the blue vent of a gastric sump tube?

Keep the vent lumen above the patients waist. The blue vent lumen should be kept above the patients waist to prevent reflux of gastric contents through it; otherwise it acts as a siphon. A one-way anti-reflux valve seated in the blue pigtail can prevent the reflux of gastric contents out the vent lumen. To prevent reflux, the nurse does not prime the tubing, maintain the patient in a high Fowlers position, or have the patient pin the tube to the thigh.

When assisting with the plan of care for a client receiving tube feedings, which of the following would the nurse include to reduce the client's risk for aspiration?

Keeping the client in a semi-Fowler's position at all times. Explanation: With continuous tube feedings, the nurse needs to keep the client in a semi-Fowler's position at all times to reduce regurgitation and the risk for aspiration. Aspirating for residual contents helps to ensure adequate nutrition and prevent overfeeding. Administering 15 to 30 mL of water every 4 hours helps to maintain tube patency. Giving the feedings at room temperature reduces the risk for diarrhea.

The nurse is assessing placement of a nasogastric tube that the patient has had in place for 2 days. The tube is draining green aspirate. What is the nurses most appropriate action?

Leave the tube in its present position. The patients aspirate is from the gastric area when the nurse observes that the color of the aspirate is green. Further confirmation of placement is necessary, but there is likely no need for repositioning. Pleural secretions are pale yellow.

The health care provider orders the insertion of a single lumen nasogastric tube. When gathering the equipment for the insertion, what will the nurse select?

Levin tube Explanation: A Levin tube is a single lumen nasogastric tube. A Salem sump tube is a double lumen nasogastric tube; a Sengstaken-Blakemore tube is a triple lumen nasogastric tube. A Miller-Abbott tube is a double lumen nasoenteric tube.

A nurse is caring for a patient with a Salem sump gastric tube attached to low intermittent suction for decompression. The patient asks, "What's this blue part of the tube for?" Which response by the nurse would be most appropriate?

"It is a vent that prevents backflow of the secretions." Explanation: The blue part of the Salem sump tube vents the larger suction-drainage tube to the atmosphere and, when kept above the patient's waist, prevents reflux of gastric contents through it. Otherwise it acts as a siphon. A gauge on the suction device regulates the pressure of the device. The tube has markings on it to aid in measurement.

The nurse is managing the care of a client needing gastrointestinal suction and decompression with a Levin tube. Place the steps of initiating suction and decompression in the order the nurse should perform them.

Locate the suction source. Select suction according to health care provider prescription. Insert the gastric decompression tube. Connect the decompression tube to the suction. Explanation: The nurse should locate the suction source, usually a wall outlet or portable machine. The nurse should then adjust the suction level on the wall outlet or portable machine to provide the amount and frequency of suction specified by the primary provider. The nurse should select intermittent high, low, or continuous suction when using a Salem sump tube; the nurse should select low intermittent suction when using a Levin tube because the single lumen may adhere to the lining of the stomach during continuous suction (if the tube is used only to obtain specimens for diagnostic purposes, manual suction may be achieved by attaching a syringe to the end of the tube and drawing back on the plunger). Finally, the nurse should insert the gastric decompression tube in accordance with accepted standards and connect it to the suction.

A patient has a gastrostomy tube that has been placed to drain stomach contents by low intermittent suction. What is the nurses priority during this aspect of the patients care?

Measure and record drainage. This drainage should be measured and recorded because it is a significant indicator of GI function. The nurse should indeed monitor the color of the output, but fluid balance is normally the priority. Frequent titration of the suction should not be necessary and feeding is contraindicated if the G tube is in place for drainage.

The nurse cares for a client who receives continuous enteral tube feedings and who is at low risk for aspiration. The nurse assesses the gastric residual volume to be 350 mL. The nurse determines which action is correct?

Monitoring the feeding closely. Explanation: High residual volumes (>200 mL) should alert the nurse to monitor the client more closely. Increasing the feeding rate will increase the residual volume. Lowering the head of the bed increases the client's risk for aspiration.

A client is receiving parenteral nutrition (PN) through a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) and will be discharged home with PN. The home health nurse evaluates the home setting and would make a recommendation when noticing which circumstance?

No land line; cell phone available and taken by family member during working hours Explanation: A telephone is necessary for the client receiving PN for emergency purposes. Water, refrigeration, and electricity are available, even if the circumstances are not optimal.

A patients physician has determined that for the next 3 to 4 weeks the patient will require parenteral nutrition (PN). The nurse should anticipate the placement of what type of venous access device?

Nontunneled central catheter Nontunneled central catheters are used for short-term (less than 6 weeks) IV therapy. A peripheral catheter can be used for the administration of peripheral parenteral nutrition for 5 to 7 days. Implantable ports and tunneled central catheters are for long-term use and may remain in place for many years. Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are another potential option.

A patient has been brought to the emergency department by EMS after telling a family member that he deliberately took an overdose of NSAIDs a few minutes earlier. If lavage is ordered, the nurse should prepare to assist with the insertion of what type of tube?

Orogastric tube An orogastric tube is a large-bore tube inserted through the mouth with a wide outlet for removal of gastric contents; it is used primarily in the emergency department or an intensive care setting. Nasogastric, Levin, and gastric sump tubes are not used for this specific purpose.

A nurse is preparing to place a patients ordered nasogastric tube. How should the nurse best determine the correct length of the nasogastric tube?

Place distal tip to nose, then ear tip and end of xiphoid process. Tube length is traditionally determined by (1) measuring the distance from the tip of the nose to the earlobe and from the earlobe to the xiphoid process, and (2) adding up to 6 inches for NG placement or at least 8 to 10 inches or more for intestinal placement, although studies do not necessarily confirm that this is a reliable technique. The physician would not prescribe a specific length and the umbilicus is not a landmark for this process. Length is not determined by aspirating from the tube.

The nurse is caring for a client who has a gastrostomy tube feeding. Upon initiating care, the nurse aspirates the gastrotomy tube for gastric residual volume (GRV) and obtains 200 mL of gastric contents. What is the priority action by the nurse?

Place the client in a semi-Fowler's position with the head of the bed at 45 degrees. Explanation: Feedings and medications should always be administered with the client in the semi-Fowler's position, and the client's head should be elevated at least 30 to 45 degrees to reduce the risk of reflux and pulmonary aspiration. This position is maintained at least 1 hour after completion of an intermittent tube feeding and is maintained at all times for clients receiving continuous tube feedings.

A nurse is admitting a patient to the postsurgical unit following a gastrostomy. When planning assessments, the nurse should be aware of what potential postoperative complication of a gastrostomy?

Premature removal of the G tube A significant postoperative complication of a gastrostomy is premature removal of the G tube. Constipation is a less immediate threat and bowel perforation and PUD are not noted to be likely complications.

A nurse is preparing to discharge a patient home on parenteral nutrition. What should an effective home care teaching program address? Select all that apply.

Preparing the patient to troubleshoot for problems Teaching the patient and family strict aseptic technique Teaching the patient and family how to set up the infusion An effective home care teaching program prepares the patient to store solutions, set up the infusion, flush the line with heparin, change the dressings, and troubleshoot for problems. The most common complication is sepsis. Strict aseptic technique is taught for hand hygiene, handling equipment, changing the dressing, and preparing the solution. Sterile water is never used for flushes and the access site must never be left open to

A nursing educator is reviewing the care of patients with feeding tubes and endotracheal tubes (ET). The educator has emphasized the need to check for tube placement in the stomach as well as residual volume. What is the main purpose of this nursing action?

Prevent aspiration Protecting the client from aspirating is essential because aspiration can cause pneumonia, a potentially life-threatening disorder. Gastric ulcers are not a common complication of tube feeding in clients with ET tubes. Abdominal distention and diarrhea can both be associated with tube feeding, but prevention of these problems is not the primary rationale for confirming placement.

A patient who suffered a stroke had an NG tube inserted to facilitate feeding shortly after admission. The patient has since become comatose and the patients family asks the nurse why the physician is recommending the removal of the patients NG tube and the insertion of a gastrostomy tube. What is the nurses best response?

Regurgitation and aspiration are less likely. Gastrostomy is preferred over NG feedings in the patient who is comatose because the gastroesophageal sphincter remains intact, making regurgitation and aspiration less likely than with NG feedings. Both tubes carry a risk for infection; this change in care is not motivated by the possibility of faster infusion or easier personal care.

A nursing instructor is preparing a class about gastrointestinal intubation. Which of the following would the instructor include as reason for this procedure? Select all that apply.

Remove gas and fluids from the stomach Diagnose gastrointestinal motility disorders Flush ingested toxins from the stomach Administer nutritional substances Explanation: Gastrointestinal intubation is used to decompress the stomach and remove gas and fluids, lavage the stomach and remove ingested toxins or other harmful materials, diagnose disorders of GI motility, administer medications and feedings, compress a bleeding site, and aspirate gastric contents for analysis. Because gastrointestinal intubation involves the insertion of a tube into the stomach, beyond the pylorus into the duodenum or jejunum, it could not be used to evaluate for masses in the large colon.

When a central venous catheter dressing becomes moist or loose, what should a nurse do first?

Remove the dressing, clean the site, and apply a new dressing. Explanation: A nurse maintaining a central venous catheter should change the dressing every 72 hours or when it becomes soiled, moist, or loose. After removing the soiled dressing, the nurse should use sterile technique to clean around the site in accordance with facility policy. After the cleaning solution has dried, the nurse should cover the site with a transparent semipermeable dressing. A nurse who notes drainage on a wound dressing should draw a circle around the moist spot and note the date and time. She should notify the physician if she observes any catheter-related complications. Only a nurse with the appropriate qualifications may remove a central venous catheter, and a moist or loose dressing isn't a reason to remove the catheter.

A nurse is caring for a patient with a nasogastric tube for feeding. During shift assessment, the nurse auscultates a new onset of bilateral lung crackles and notes a respiratory rate of 30 breaths per minute. The patients oxygen saturation is 89% by pulse oximetry. After ensuring the patients immediate safety, what is the nurses most appropriate action?

Report possible signs of aspiration pneumonia to the primary care provider The patient should be assessed for further signs of aspiration pneumonia. It is unnecessary to remove the NG tube and chest physiotherapy is not indicated. A different feeding solution will not resolve this complication.

A nurse has obtained an order to remove a patients NG tube and has prepared the patient accordingly. After flushing the tube and removing the nasal tape, the nurse attempts removal but is met with resistance. Because the nurse is unable to overcome this resistance, what is the most appropriate action?

Report this finding to the patients primary care provider. If the tube does not come out easily, force should not be used, and the problem should be reported to the primary provider. Enzymes are used to resolve obstructions, not to aid removal. For safety reasons, hot water is never instilled into a tube. Twisting could cause damage to the mucosa.

A nurse is writing a care plan for a patient with a nasogastric tube in place for gastric decompression. What risk nursing diagnosis is the most appropriate component of the care plan?

Risk for Impaired Skin Integrity Related to the Presence of NG Tube NG tubes can easily damage the delicate mucosa of the nose, sinuses, and upper airway. An NG tube does not preclude verbal communication. This patients NG tube is in place for decompression, so complications of enteral feeding do not apply.

A nurse is caring for a patient with a subclavian central line who is receiving parenteral nutrition (PN). In preparing a care plan for this patient, what nursing diagnosis should the nurse prioritize?

Risk for Infection Related to the Presence of a Subclavian Catheter The high glucose content of PN solutions makes the solutions an idea culture media for bacterial and fungal growth, and the central venous access devices provide a port of entry. Prevention of infection is consequently a high priority. The patient will experience some inconveniences with regard to toileting, activity, and sleep, but the infection risk is a priority over each of these.

A client has had a gastrostomy tube inserted. What does the nurse anticipate the initial fluid nourishment will be after the insertion of the gastrostomy tube?

Sterile water at 30 mL/h Explanation: The first fluid nourishment is administered soon after tube insertion and can consist of a sterile water or normal saline flush of at least 30 mL. Distilled water is not used for initial start of feeding. Formula feeding and high-calorie liquids are not used initially.

A nurse is participating in a patients care conference and the team is deciding between parenteral nutrition (PN) and a total nutritional admixture (TNA). What advantages are associated with providing TNA rather than PN?

TNA is less costly than PN. TNA is mixed in one container and administered to the patient over a 24-hour period. A 1.5-micron filter is used with the TNA solution. Advantages of the TNA over PN include cost savings. Pharmacy staff must prepare both solutions.

The nurse is inserting a Levin tube for a patient for gastric decompression. The tube should be inserted to 6 to 10 cm beyond what length?

The distance measured from the tip of the nose to the earlobe and from the earlobe to the xiphoid process Explanation: Before inserting the tube, the nurse determines the length that will be needed to reach the stomach or the small intestine. A mark is made on the tube to indicate the desired length. This length is traditionally determined by (1) measuring the distance from the tip of the nose to the earlobe and from the earlobe to the xiphoid process, and (2) adding up to 15 cm (6 in) for NG placement or at least 20 to 25 cm (8 to 10 in) or more for intestinal placement.

The nurse is inserting a nasogastric tube and the patient begins coughing and is unable to speak. What does the nurse suspect has occurred?

The nurse has inadvertently inserted the tube into the trachea. Explanation: To ensure patient safety, it is essential to confirm that the tube has been placed correctly. The tube tip may be in the esophagus, stomach, or small intestine, or inadvertently inserted in the lungs, most commonly in the right main bronchus. Inappropriate placement may occur in patients with decreased levels of consciousness, confused mental states, poor or absent cough and gag reflexes, or agitation during insertion.

The nurse is preparing to insert a patients ordered NG tube. What factor should the nurse recognize as a risk for incorrect placement?

The patient is agitated. Inappropriate placement may occur in patients with decreased levels of consciousness, confused mental states, poor or absent cough and gag reflexes, or agitation during insertion. A short neck, GERD, and pneumonia are not linked to incorrect placement.

A positive nitrogen balance indicates which condition?

Tissue growth Explanation: A positive nitrogen balance exists when nitrogen intake exceeds nitrogen output and indicates tissue growth. A negative nitrogen balance exists with fever, starvation, and burn injury.

A nurse is caring for a patient who has a gastrointestinal tube in place. Which of the following are indications for gastrointestinal intubation? Select all that apply.

To remove gas from the stomach To remove toxins from the stomach To diagnose GI motility disorders GI intubation may be performed to decompress the stomach and remove gas and fluid, lavage (flush with water or other fluids) the stomach and remove ingested toxins or other harmful materials, diagnose disorders of GI motility and other disorders, administer medications and feedings, compress a bleeding site, and aspirate gastric contents for analysis. GI intubation is not used for opening sphincters that are not functional or for administering clotting factors.

A client with a nasogastric tube set to low intermittent suction is receiving D51/2NS at 100 mL/hr. The nurse has identified a nursing diagnosis of deficient fluid volume. Which of the following are data that support this diagnosis? Select all that apply.

Urine output that decreased from 60 to 40 mL/hr Heart rate that increased from 82 to 98 beats/min within 2 hours Fluid output of 2150 mL and total fluid intake of 2000 mL for the past 24 hours Explanation: Data supporting a nursing diagnosis of deficient fluid volume include dry skin and mucus membranes, decreased urinary output, lethargy, and increased heart rate.

A nurse is creating a care plan for a patient with a nasogastric tube. How should the nurse direct other members of the care team to check correct placement of the tube?

Use a combination of at least two accepted methods for confirming placement. There are a variety of methods to check tube placement. The safest way to confirm placement is to utilize a combination of assessment methods.

A patient is postoperative day 1 following gastrostomy. The nurse is planning interventions to address the nursing diagnosis of Risk for Infection Related to Presence of Wound and Tube. What intervention is most appropriate?

Wash the area around the tube with soap and water daily. Infection can be prevented by keeping the skin near the insertion site clean using soap and water. Hydrogen peroxide is not used, due to associated skin irritation. The skin around the site is not irrigated with normal saline and antibiotics are not administered to prevent site infection.

The nurse checks residual content before each intermittent tube feeding. When should the patient be reassessed?

When the residual is greater than 200 mL Explanation: Although a residual volume of 200 mL or greater is generally considered a cause for concern in patients at high risk for aspiration, feedings do not necessarily need to be withheld in all patients.

A graduate nurse is cleaning a central venous access device (CVAD) and is being evaluated by the preceptor nurse. The preceptor nurse makes a recommendation for relearning the skill when she notes the graduate nurse does the following action:

Wipes catheter ports from distal end to insertion site Explanation: Proper cleansing of a CVAD includes cleaning the insertion site with a chlorhexidine solution in a circular motion from insertion site outward. The nurse will obtain another pair of sterile gloves to perform the procedure if contamination of gloves occurs. The nurse cleanses from insertion site outward to distal catheter ports.

The primary source of microorganisms for catheter-related infections are the skin and the

catheter hub. Explanation: The primary sources of microorganisms for catheter-related infections are the skin and the catheter hub. The catheter site is covered with an occlusive gauze dressing that is usually changed every other day.

To ensure patency of central venous line ports, diluted heparin flushes are used

daily when not in use. Explanation: Daily instillation of dilute heparin flush when a port is not in use will maintain the port. Continuous infusion maintains the patency of each port. Heparin flushes are used after each intermittent infusion. Heparin flushes are used after blood drawing to prevent clotting of blood within the port. Heparin flush of ports is not necessary if a line is to be discontinued.

A client who can't tolerate oral feedings begins receiving intermittent enteral feedings. When monitoring for evidence of intolerance to these feedings, what must the nurse remain alert for?

diaphoresis, vomiting, and diarrhea. Explanation: The nurse must monitor for diaphoresis, vomiting, and diarrhea because these signs suggest an intolerance to the ordered enteral feeding solution. Other signs and symptoms of feeding intolerance include abdominal cramps, nausea, aspiration, and glycosuria. Electrolyte disturbances, constipation, dehydration, and hypercapnia are complications of enteral feedings, not signs of intolerance. Hyperglycemia, not hypoglycemia, is a potential complication of enteral feedings.

Rebound hypoglycemia is a complication of parenteral nutrition caused by

feedings stopped too abruptly. Explanation: Rebound hypoglycemia occurs when the feedings are stopped too abruptly. Hyperglycemia is caused by glucose intolerance. Fluid overload is caused by fluids infusing too rapidly. An air embolism can occur from a cap missing on a port.

The nurse cares for a client who receives continuous parenteral nutrition (PN) through a Hickman catheter and notices that the client's solution has run out. No PN solution is currently available from the pharmacy. What should the nurse do?

hang 10% dextrose and water Explanation: If the parenteral nutrition (PN) solution runs out and no PN is available, the nurse should hang 10% dextrose and water until the PN becomes available.

The nurse cares for a client who receives parenteral nutrition (PN). The nurse notes on the care plan that the catheter will need to be removed 6 weeks after insertion and that the client's venous access device is a

nontunneled central catheter. Explanation: Nontunneled central catheters are used for short-term (less than 6 weeks) IV therapy in acute care settings. The subclavian vein is the most common vessel used because the subclavian area provides a stable insertion site to which the catheter can be anchored; it allows the client freedom of movement and provides easy access to the dressing site. Peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) lines may be used for intermediate terms (3 to 12 months). Tunneled central catheters are for long-term use and may remain in place for many years. Implanted ports are devices also used for long-term home IV therapy (e.g., Port-A-Cath, Mediport, Hickman Port, P.A.S. Port).

The nurse inserts a nasogastric tube into the right nares of a patient. When testing the tube aspirate for pH to confirm placement, what does the nurse anticipate the pH will be if placement is in the lungs?

pH 6 Explanation: Determining the pH of the tube aspirate is a more accurate method of confirming tube placement than is maintaining tube length or visually assessing tube aspirate. The pH method can also be used to monitor the advancement of the tube into the small intestine. The pH of gastric aspirate is acidic (1 to 5), typically less than 4. The pH of intestinal aspirate is approximately 6 or higher, and the pH of respiratory aspirate is more alkaline.

Which condition is caused by improper catheter placement and inadvertent puncture of the pleura?

pneumothorax Explanation: A pneumothorax is caused by improper catheter placement and inadvertent puncture of the pleura. Air embolism can occur from a missing cap on a port. Sepsis can be caused by the separation of dressings. Fluid overload is caused by fluids infusing too rapidly.

The client is on a continuous tube feeding. The nurse determines the tube placement should be checked every

shift. Explanation: Each nurse caring for the client is responsible for verifying that the tube is located in the proper area for continuous feeding. Checking for placement each hour is unnecessary unless the client is extremely restless or there is basis for rechecking the tube due to other client activities. Checking for placement every 12 or 24 hours does not meet the standard of care for the client receiving continuous tube feedings.

The most significant complication related to continuous tube feedings is

the increased potential for aspiration. Explanation: Because the normal swallowing mechanism is bypassed, consideration of the danger of aspiration must be foremost in the mind of the nurse caring for the client receiving continuous tube feedings. Tube feedings preserve GI integrity by intraluminal delivery of nutrients. Tube feedings preserve the normal sequence of intestinal and hepatic metabolism. Tube feedings maintain fat metabolism and lipoprotein synthesis.