Question

A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving continuous tube feedings via a gastrostomy tube. The client has had 3 loose stools in the last 4 hours. Which of the following prescriptions should the nurse anticipate?

A.) Reposition the tube and verify placement

B.) Decrease the rate of feeding

C.) Administer a pro kinetic medication

D.) Irrigate the tubing with 30 mL of water

Answer 1

The nurse should anticipate a prescription to decrease the rate of feeding for a client having frequent loose stools from continuous tube feeding to help slow down digestion and reduce diarrhea.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nurse who observes a client with three loose stools in four hours during continuous tube feedings via a gastrostomy tube should anticipate a change in the feeding regimen. The most likely prescription to expect would be B.) Decrease the rate of feeding. This action allows the digestive system to process the nutrients more slowly, potentially reducing diarrhea. It's also important to monitor the patient's hydration status and electrolyte balance, considering the provided information about treating acute gastroenteritis with increased fluid intake and the potential need for oral rehydration solutions or intravenous fluids in severe cases. Other measures like repositioning the tube, administering prokinetic medication, or irrigating the tubing might be appropriate depending on the specific circumstances and patient's condition.