54. A client is to start on an enteral tube feeding. What should a nurse do to make this as comfortable as possible for the client?
54. A client is to start on an enteral tube feeding. What should a nurse do to make this as comfortable as possible for the client?
. Keep the head of the bed flat.
. Give the feeding as quickly as possible.
. Chill the feeding to improve the taste.
. Start the tube feeding slowly.
Test-Taking Tip
Choose an option that minimizes vomiting and aspiration.
Content Area: Adult Health, Gastrointestinal; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Implementation; Cognitive Level: Application; Client Need/Subneed: Physiological Integrity/Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies/Total Parenteral Nutrition
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Answer 1 is incorrect because the head of the bed should be elevated, not flat, to prevent aspiration. Answer 2 is incorrect because the feeding should be given slowly to prevent diarrhea and vomiting. Answer 3 is incorrect because the feeding should be warm. Also, clients cannot "taste" the feedings; improving taste is not a concern. Answer 4 is correct because giving the feeding too fast could upset the client's stomach and cause diarrhea.