NCLEX-PN® ExaminationSafety and Infection ControlHard
An LPN is caring for a client who is receiving continuous enteral feedings via a nasogastric tube. The LPN notes that the feeding bag has been hanging for 20 hours. Which action should the LPN take NEXT?
- AChange the feeding bag and tubing.
- BAdd more formula to the current feeding bag.
- CIncrease the rate of the enteral feeding.
- DFlush the nasogastric tube with sterile water.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Change the feeding bag and tubing.
Enteral feeding bags and tubing should be changed every 24 hours (or according to policy, often 12-24 hours) to prevent bacterial growth and reduce the risk of infection. Since 20 hours has passed, it is approaching or within the window for a change.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Adding more formula to an old bag increases the risk of bacterial contamination and infection.
- C. Increasing the feeding rate without an order and without addressing the hang time is inappropriate and potentially harmful.
- D. Flushing the tube is important for patency but does not address the issue of the feeding bag's hang time.
Enteral Feeding Equipment Change
Enteral feeding bags and tubing are sterile when opened but can become colonized with bacteria over time. They must be changed regularly (typically every 24 hours) to minimize the risk of infection.
- Prevents bacterial contamination of formula.
- Reduces risk of gastrointestinal infection.
- Follow facility policy for specific hang times (usually 12-24 hours).
Memory trick: Don't let Old Bags become Germ Flags.