Question

The best nursing approach to prevent feeding tube obstruction is to

a. dilute the feeding to make it flow more easily.
b. flush the tube every 4 hours with 20 to 30 mL of tap water.
c. pass a stylet daily to keep the tubing clear.
d. use a larger bore tube where possible.

Answer 1

To prevent feeding tube obstruction, flushing the tube every 4 hours with 20 to 30 mL of tap water is the recommended nursing approach. This helps maintain tube patency and ensure delivery of nutrition.

Step-by-step explanation:

The best nursing approach to prevent feeding tube obstruction is to flush the tube every 4 hours with 20 to 30 mL of tap water. This practice helps to ensure that the tube remains clear and prevents blockages that can interfere with nutrition delivery. It is essential to follow protocols for maintaining feeding tube patency, and flushing at regular intervals is widely recognized as an effective method.

Using a larger bore tube where possible can reduce the risk of obstruction but may not be appropriate for every patient. Diluting the feeding could compromise nutritional density and is not a recommended routine practice for preventing blockages. Passing a stylet daily is not recommended because it might cause damage to the tube or increase the risk of infection.