Question

An elderly male client who suffered a cerebral vascular accident is receiving tube feedings via a gastrostomy tube. The nurse knows that the best position for this client during administration of the feedings is:

a) Upright
b) Supine
c) Left lateral
d) Right lateral

Answer 1

The best position for gastrostomy tube feedings after a stroke is the upright position, as it aids in digestion and minimizes the risk of aspiration.

Step-by-step explanation:

The best position for an elderly male client who suffered a cerebral vascular accident (stroke) and is receiving tube feedings via a gastrostomy tube is upright. This position helps in promoting digestion and preventing aspiration, which is when food or liquid enters the airway or lungs by accident. The upright position can be achieved by elevating the head of the bed to at least 30 to 45 degrees. Positions such as supine, left lateral, and right lateral are not recommended for tube feeding because they do not minimize the risk of aspiration as effectively as the upright position does.