A nurse is planning care for a client who has a decreased level of consciousness. The client is receiving continuous enteral feedings via a gastrostomy tube due to an inability to swallow. Which of the following is the priority action by the nurse?
Check residual volume every 4 to 6 hr.
Observe client's respiratory status.
Elevate the head of the client's bed 30° to 45°.
Monitor intake and output every 8 hr.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Checking residual volume is important for assessing tolerance to feedings, but it is not the priority action to prevent complications related to decreased consciousness.
B. Observing the client’s respiratory status is crucial but not the priority action related to enteral feedings.
C. Elevating the head of the client's bed 30° to 45° is the priority action, as it reduces the risk of aspiration during enteral feeding, which is a significant concern for clients with decreased consciousness.
D. Monitoring intake and output is important for overall assessment but is not the immediate priority in this context.
Free Nursing Test Bank
- Free Pharmacology Quiz 1
- Free Medical-Surgical Quiz 2
- Free Fundamentals Quiz 3
- Free Maternal-Newborn Quiz 4
- Free Anatomy and Physiology Quiz 5
- Free Obstetrics and Pediatrics Quiz 6
- Free Fluid and Electrolytes Quiz 7
- Free Community Health Quiz 8
- Free Promoting Health across the Lifespan Quiz 9
- Free Multidimensional Care Quiz 10
View Related questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Applying the pulse oximeter to a finger may not be ideal due to edema, which can affect the accuracy of the reading.
B. Using a skin fold is not a typical location for pulse oximetry and may not provide accurate readings.
C. Applying the probe to a toe may be less effective if the toenails are thickened, potentially affecting blood flow to that area and the accuracy of the reading.
D. The earlobe is a suitable alternative for measuring oxygen saturation, particularly in cases where peripheral sites (like fingers or toes) are compromised.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are not effective against C. difficile spores; hand hygiene should be performed using soap and water to effectively remove the spores.
B. Testing for C. difficile typically involves stool samples, not blood specimens, making this option inappropriate for confirming the infection.
C. Placing the client on contact precautions is essential to prevent the spread of C. difficile, as it is highly contagious and can be transmitted via surfaces and direct contact.
D. A surgical mask is not necessary for clients with C. difficile unless they have respiratory symptoms; the primary concern is preventing contact transmission.