Question

A nurse is assessing for the correct placement of a client's NG feeding tube prior to administering a bolus feeding. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

a. Verify the placement by aspirating stomach contents
b. Measure the pH of the aspirated gastric contents
c. Insert air into the tube and auscultate for a whooshing sound
d. Inspect the color and consistency of the aspirated contents

Answer 1

To assess the correct placement of a client's NG feeding tube prior to administering a bolus feeding, the nurse should inspect the color and consistency of the aspirated contents.

Step-by-step explanation:

In order to assess the correct placement of a client's NG feeding tube prior to administering a bolus feeding, the nurse should inspect the color and consistency of the aspirated contents. This involves withdrawing some fluid from the tube and observing its characteristics.

The nurse should expect to see gastric contents, which are typically yellow or green in color and have a semi-solid consistency. If the aspirated contents appear clear or have a different color or consistency, it may indicate incorrect tube placement.

Inspecting the aspirated contents is an important step to ensure that the feeding tube is in the correct location and that the bolus feeding will be safely administered to the client.