Author Question: A preterm infant is diagnosed with necrotizing enterocolitis. The parents ask the nurse to explain ... (Read 33 times)

panfilo · **on:** Jun 28, 2018

A preterm infant is diagnosed with necrotizing enterocolitis. The parents ask the nurse to explain this condition. Accurate information would include:

a. Intravenous feedings will be used for a while to permit the intestines to heal.
b. The feeding tube could have damaged the stomach lining.
c. The infant formula may have been too rich for the baby's system.
d. This is a mild infection that is easily treated with antibiotics.

Question 2

When a preterm infant is receiving gavage feedings, the nurse should:

a. Assess for gastric residual before each feeding.
b. Discard gastric residual to prevent overdistention of the stomach.
c. Decrease the feedings if the infant gains more than 10 g/day.
d. Place the infant on the left side after feeding to prevent aspiration.

heyhey123 · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 28, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
It is thought that hypoxia that is common with prematurity damages the cells of the intestine so that it develops ischemic changes and does not produce adequate mucus. This permits bacteria from feedings to invade the intestinal wall. To permit healing, feedings are given intravenously. It is a life-threatening infection.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
The nurse should assess for gastric residual and re-administer the residual because it contains gastric fluids. A desired weight gain is 20 to 30 g/day. The infant should be placed on the right side (not the left) to promote gastric emptying and prevent aspiration.