Question

A patient is being ventilated and has been started on enteral feedings with a nasogastric small-bore feeding tube. What is the primary reason the nurse must frequently assess tube placement?

a. To assess for paralytic ileus
b. To maintain the patency of the feeding tube
c. To monitor for skin breakdown on the nose
d. To prevent aspiration of the feedings

Answer 1

The primary reason the nurse must frequently assess tube placement is to prevent aspiration of the feedings.

Step-by-step explanation:

The primary reason the nurse must frequently assess tube placement is to prevent aspiration of the feedings. When a nasogastric small-bore feeding tube is inserted, there is a risk that the tube may be positioned incorrectly and the feedings may enter the airway instead of the stomach. This can lead to serious complications like aspiration pneumonia.