Author Question: The nurse has inserted a nasogastric (NG) feeding tube. The feeding tube has a stylet in place to ... (Read 232 times)

penza · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

The nurse has inserted a nasogastric (NG) feeding tube. The feeding tube has a stylet in place to aid insertion. What should the nurse do once the tube is in place?

a. Remove the stylet immediately.
b. Reinsert the stylet if the radiograph determines incorrect placement.
c. Fasten the end of the NG tube to the patient's gown using tape and a safety pin.
d. Leave the stylet in place and obtain a chest/abdomen radiograph.

Question 2

The health care provider orders percussion on a patient to help clear airway secretions. Which action by the nurse is appropriate?

a. Performing percussion over the ribs, while avoiding the clavicles and sternum
b. Administering pain medication before performing the percussion because the vibrations will be painful
c. Performing percussion during exhalation only with the flat part of the palm
d. Creating a rocking motion by slightly leaning on the patient's chest

cascooper22 · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

D
Leave the stylet in place (if used) until correct position has been verified by x-ray film. Never attempt to reinsert a partially or fully removed stylet while the feeding tube is in place. This can cause perforation of the tube and can injure the patient. Do not use safety pins to pin the tube to the patient's gown. Safety pins become unfastened and can cause injury to the patient.

Answer to Question 2

A
Percussion is performed by clapping the chest wall with cupped hands over the ribs only. The clavicles, breast tissue, sternum, spine, waist, and abdomen should not be used. If done correctly, percussion painlessly sets up vibrations in the chest to dislodge retained secretions. Vibration is done during exhalation only with the flat part of the palm. Shaking requires the caregiver to slightly lean on a patient's chest and create a rocking motion.