Question

Which of the following would the nurse perform when giving medication via an NG tube? A. Ascertain tube patency and placement B. Position the client dorsal recumbent C. Reconnect the tube to suction immediately after administration of the drug. D. Administer the drug as rapidly as possible to prevent clogging the tube.

Short answer

Answer: The most appropriate action is to ascertain tube patency and placement to ensure the medication reaches the patient's stomach safely and prevent complications.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the options

A. Ascertain tube patency and placement: Ensuring that the NG tube is patent (open and unobstructed) and correctly placed before administering medication. B. Position the client dorsal recumbent: Placing the patient on their back with knees bent and hips flexed. C. Reconnect the tube to suction immediately after administration of the drug: Attaching the NG tube back to suction after giving the medication. D. Administer the drug as rapidly as possible to prevent clogging the tube: Quickly giving the medication to avoid any blockages in the tube.

Evaluate each option

A. Ascertain tube patency and placement: This step is essential to prevent complications or ineffective medication administration. It ensures that the medication reaches the patient's stomach safely. B. Position the client dorsal recumbent: This position might be helpful in some cases but not necessarily a must for administering medication via an NG tube. C. Reconnect the tube to suction immediately after administration of the drug: Reconnecting the tube to suction right away may not allow enough time for the medication to be absorbed before being suctioned out. D. Administer the drug as rapidly as possible to prevent clogging the tube: Administering the medication too quickly can lead to complications such as aspiration or blockages in the tube. It is essential to deliver the medication at a controlled rate.

Choose the correct answer

Based on the evaluation of each option, the correct answer is: A. Ascertain tube patency and placement