A client recovering from a stroke is receiving continuous enteral nutrition via a nasogastric tube. The practical nurse is preparing to administer a scheduled dose of liquid acetaminophen through the tube. Arrange the following actions in the correct sequence to safely complete this medication administration.
- 1Pause the continuous enteral feeding pump.
- 2Verify enteral tube placement and assess gastric residual volume.
- 3Flush the enteral tube with 15 to 30 mL of sterile water.
- 4Administer the liquid acetaminophen into the enteral tube.
- 5Flush the tube with an additional 15 to 30 mL of sterile water and restart the feeding.
Answer
Pause the feeding pump, verify tube placement and residual volume, flush the tube with water, administer the medication, and complete a final flush before restarting the feeding.
The correct sequence ensures patient safety and tube patency. First, the feeding is paused to prevent mixing. Second, placement and residual volume are checked to confirm gastrointestinal function and prevent aspiration. Third, a pre-flush clears the tube. Fourth, the medication is administered. Finally, a post-flush delivers the full dose into the stomach and clears the tube before resuming the feeding.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Enteral Tube Medication Administration