Question

A patient is to receive medications through a small-bore nasogastric feeding. Which nursing actions are appropriate? Select all that apply.

1.Verifying tube placement after medications are given.
2.Mixing all medications together to give all at one time.
3.Using an enteral tube syringe to administer medications.
4.Flush tube with 30-60 mL of water after the last dose of medication.
5.Checking for gastric residual before giving the medications.
6.Keeping the head of the bed elevated 30-60 minutes after the medications are given."

Answer 1

Appropriate nursing actions for administering medications via a nasogastric tube include verifying tube placement, using an enteral tube syringe, flushing the tube with water after administration, checking for gastric residual, and keeping the bed elevated. Mixing medications is not advised due to potential interactions.

Step-by-step explanation:

Administering medications through a small-bore nasogastric feeding tube requires careful nursing actions to ensure patient safety and medication efficacy. The following actions are appropriate:

• Verifying tube placement after medications are given to ensure the medication reaches the intended site.
• Using an enteral tube syringe to administer medications, which is specifically designed for this purpose.
• Flushing the tube with 30-60 mL of water after the last dose of medication to clear the tube and ensure all medication has been delivered.
• Checking for gastric residual before giving the medications can inform about the patient's digestion and absorption process.
• Keeping the head of the bed elevated 30-60 minutes after the medications are given to reduce the risk of aspiration.

Mixing all medications together is not recommended as some may interact or have different requirements for administration.