A practical nurse is preparing to administer a prescribed bolus enteral feeding via a gastrostomy tube to an adult client. Arrange the following actions in the correct chronological sequence.
- 1Elevate the head of the client's bed to at least 30 to 45 degrees.
- 2Aspirate gastric contents to observe appearance and measure residual volume.
- 3Flush the gastrostomy tube with 30 mL of prescribed water.
- 4Administer the prescribed bolus feeding formula by gravity.
- 5Flush the gastrostomy tube with an additional 30 mL of water.
Answer
The correct sequence is to first elevate the head of the bed, then check the gastric residual, flush the tube, administer the feeding formula, and finally flush the tube again.
Safe administration of enteral feedings requires a strict sequence to prevent complications, primarily aspiration. The client must first be positioned upright. Next, the nurse must assess gastrointestinal tolerance by checking residual volume. Once tolerance is established, the tube is flushed to ensure patency. The feeding is then administered, followed immediately by a final flush to maintain tube patency and hygiene.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Enteral Nutrition Administration and Aspiration Precautions