Author Question: An elderly client's small-bowel obstruction has resolved and her intestinal decompression tube has ... (Read 39 times)

penza · **on:** Jul 22, 2018

An elderly client's small-bowel obstruction has resolved and her intestinal decompression tube has been ordered to be removed. When performing this nursing action, what should the nurse prioritize?

A) Instill a small amount of water to provide lubrication while withdrawing the tube.
B) Remove the tube slowly to avoid injuring the client.
C) Change from continuous to intermittent suction during removal.
D) Aspirate the tube while removing it in order to normalize pressure.

Question 2

A nurse notices that, even with intermittent suctioning, an NPO client's nasogastric tube is becoming obstructed. Which of the following interventions will promote tube patency?

A) Give liberal amounts of water to the client.
B) Inspect the tube carefully.
C) Give ice chips to the client.
D) Remove and wash the tube.

Kdiggy · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 22, 2018

Answer to Question 1

B
Feedback:
An intestinal decompression tube is removed slowly because removal is in a reverse direction through the curves of the intestine and the valves of the lower and upper ends of the stomach. The tube is withdrawn 6 to 10 in. (15 to 25 cm) at 10-minute intervals. It is incorrect to aspirate or instill water during removal and the suction should be turned off, not merely changed to intermittent suction.

Answer to Question 2

C
Feedback:
Giving ice chips or occasional sips of water to a client promotes tube patency. The fluid helps to dilute the gastric secretions. However, both must be given sparingly because water is hypotonic and draws electrolytes into the gastric fluid. Because the diluted fluid is ultimately removed, giving the client liberal amounts of water can deplete serum electrolytes. Removing and washing the tube is not recommended unless patency cannot be restored.