CNA Certification (Written Exam)Infection Control and SafetyHard
A nurse aide is providing care for a resident with a feeding tube. Which observation should be immediately reported to the nurse?
- AA small amount of formula residue is seen in the feeding tube after flushing.
- BThe resident develops a new cough or shortness of breath during feeding.
- CThe feeding bag needs to be changed for a new one.
- DThe resident complains of feeling full after a feeding.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. The resident develops a new cough or shortness of breath during feeding.
A new cough or shortness of breath during or after a feeding indicates potential aspiration, where formula enters the lungs instead of the stomach. Aspiration is a serious complication that can lead to pneumonia and requires immediate nursing assessment and intervention.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Minor residue after flushing might indicate a need for more thorough flushing but is not an immediate critical concern.
- C. Changing a feeding bag is a routine task and not an immediate emergency observation.
- D. Feeling full after a feeding can be normal; it should be reported but is not an immediate emergency.
Feeding Tube Complication: Aspiration
The entry of formula or gastric contents into the respiratory tract, a serious complication of feeding tube care.
- Signs include coughing, choking, shortness of breath, gurgling breath sounds.
- Can lead to aspiration pneumonia.
- Requires immediate nursing assessment.
- Prevention includes proper positioning, checking tube placement, and monitoring feeding tolerance.
Memory trick: Coughing or breathless, tube feeding's distress; call the nurse, no less.