Question

When caring for a client who is receivng enteral feedings, the nurse would take which measure to prevent aspiration?

A) Elevate the head of the bed at least 30 degrees during and after feedings
B) Administer medications via the enteral feeding tube
C) Use a small-bore feeding tube for administration
D) Administer the enteral feeding at a rapid rate to minimize exposure to the stomach

Answer 1

To prevent aspiration in a client receiving enteral feedings, it is recommended to elevate the head of the bed at least 30 degrees during and after feedings. The Correct Answer is Option .A.

Step-by-step explanation:

When caring for a client who is receiving enteral feedings, the measure to prevent aspiration is to elevate the head of the bed at least 30 degrees during and after feedings. Elevating the head of the bed takes advantage of gravity, which helps in reducing the risk of stomach contents moving back into the esophagus and potentially entering the lungs, which can lead to aspiration pneumonia.

The other options mentioned, such as administering medications via the enteral feeding tube, using a small-bore feeding tube, and administering the enteral feeding at a rapid rate, do not directly prevent aspiration and are not recommended practices for this purpose.