Question

A patient, who has a tube feeding, requires a chest x-ray study for evaluation of a cough. To reduce the risk of aspiration, the nurse:

a. helps the radiology technician to position the patient to avoid dislodging the tube.
b. slows the rate of the feedings until placement has been verified.
c. cuts the infusion rate by half.
d. stops feedings 10 to 15 minutes before placing flat to obtain the radiograph.

Answer 1

To reduce the risk of aspiration, the nurse should stop feedings before the x-ray and help position the patient to avoid dislodging the tube.

Step-by-step explanation:

To reduce the risk of aspiration during a chest x-ray study in a patient with a feeding tube, the nurse should stop feedings 10 to 15 minutes before placing the patient flat to obtain the radiograph. This allows any residual feeding in the stomach to be cleared, reducing the risk of aspiration. The nurse should also help the radiology technician to position the patient to avoid dislodging the tube.