NCLEX-RNSafety and Infection Prevention and ControlMedium
A nurse is preparing to administer a medication via a nasogastric (NG) tube to a client who is receiving continuous enteral feedings. Which initial action should the nurse take?
- AFlush the NG tube with 30 mL of water.
- BStop the continuous enteral feeding.
- CAdminister the medication slowly through the NG tube.
- DAspirate gastric contents and check the pH.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Stop the continuous enteral feeding.
The continuous enteral feeding must be stopped before administering medication through an NG tube to prevent dilution of the medication, ensure proper absorption, and avoid drug-nutrient interactions. Medications should not be mixed with the feeding formula.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Flushing is done after checking placement and before/after medication administration, but not as the initial step before stopping the feeding.
- C. Administering the medication is the final step after all preparatory actions, including stopping the feeding and checking placement.
- D. Checking gastric pH and aspirating contents are crucial steps to confirm tube placement, but the feeding must be stopped first.
NG Tube Medication Administration
Procedure for delivering liquid or dissolved medications through a nasogastric tube to a client's stomach.
- Always stop continuous enteral feedings before administering medications.
- Verify tube placement before administering any substance.
- Flush the tube before and after medication administration to prevent clogging and ensure delivery.
Memory trick: STOP, CHECK, FLUSH, GIVE, FLUSH, RESTART!