Final answer:
Prior to starting an enteral feeding for a 10-year-old, the priority nursing action is to confirm the placement of the feeding tube.
Step-by-step explanation:
Prior to starting an enteral feeding for a 10-year-old, the priority nursing action that should be initiated is to confirm the placement of the feeding tube. This is crucial to ensure that the feeding tube is correctly positioned in the gastrointestinal tract so that the feeding is safe and effective.
To confirm the placement, the nurse can perform a pH test by aspirating gastric contents through the feeding tube and checking the pH level. Gastric aspirate typically has a pH level between 1 and 5, indicating that the tube is correctly placed in the stomach.
If the pH test confirms correct placement, the nurse can then proceed with the enteral feeding, following the prescribed guidelines and monitoring the child closely for any signs of intolerance or complications.