Final answer:
The nurse should first identify and confirm the correct placement of the nasogastric (NG) tube before initiating enteral feedings. This is important to ensure that the tube is in the gastric (stomach) position and not in the lungs or other incorrect placement.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse should first identify and confirm the correct placement of the nasogastric (NG) tube before initiating enteral feedings. This is important to ensure that the tube is in the gastric (stomach) position and not in the lungs or other incorrect placement.
One way to confirm the placement of the NG tube is by aspirating gastric contents and checking the pH value. Gastric aspirate typically has an acidic pH value (less than 5.5), indicating that the tube is in the correct position.
Once the correct placement has been confirmed, other actions such as warming the feeding to room temperature can be considered. This is done to improve patient comfort and prevent complications such as gastric discomfort or cramping.