Author Question: The nurse is caring for a client with a Levin GI suction tube. Which of the following is a ... (Read 58 times)

bobypop · **on:** Jul 16, 2018

The nurse is caring for a client with a Levin GI suction tube. Which of the following is a recommended nursing care guideline for this type of tube?

A) Irrigate tube frequently with small amounts of saline or air to keep it patent.
B) Clear the air port with air to keep it open and keep the distal tip from the wall of the stomach.
C) Provide nasotracheal suctioning because swallowing is impossible.
D) Use a humidifier to keep the skin and secretions moist.

Question 2

An elderly client who was admitted to the healthcare facility passes away as a result of a cardiopulmonary arrest. The nurse attending to the client is deeply traumatized by the incident.

What should the nurse do to obtain support and comfort following the death of the client? A) Request the coroner not to order an autopsy.
B) Avoid the situation by walking away from it.
C) Express sadness to the medical team and client's family.
D) Try to assist the client's family members in the funeral.

cassie_ragen · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 16, 2018

Answer to Question 1

A
Feedback:
The Levin tube should be irrigated frequently with small amounts of saline or air to keep it patent. The nurse should clear the air port of the Salem sump tube with air to keep it open and prevent the distal tip from sucking against the wall of the stomach and causing irritation. The Sengstaken-Blakemore tube is rarely used and nasotracheal suctioning must be provided because the client cannot swallow. The nurse should not use a humidifier with these tubes because of bacteria in the air.

Answer to Question 2

C
Feedback:
Expressing sadness to coworkers, supervisors, spouse, spiritual advisors, and to the client's family members is appropriate for achieving support and comfort in dealing with the death of the client. When death is a result of a cardiopulmonary attack and no foul play is suspected, the family members may request that an autopsy not be performed. However, the nurse cannot make such a request. One of the nurse's duties following the death of the client also includes providing assistance to the client's family members in preparing for the funeral, such as calling the chaplain, providing a list of funeral homes or crematoriums, and arranging transportation of the body; however, this is a duty and a measure of expressing support and concern to the family members, but may not help the nurse in recovering from the psychological trauma of the client's death.