A patient has a clogged postpyloric feeding tube. Which of the following should the nurse do to help this patient?

1. irrigate the tube with a large amount of pressure to break the clog
2. use a stylet to break through the clog
3. slowly attempt to irrigate the tube with warm water
4. pull the tube and insert another


3

Rationale: To dislodge a clogged tube, irrigate the tube with warm water, cola, or juice. Also, using a syringe with alternating positive and negative pressure can dislodge a clog. The nurse should not irrigate the tube with large amounts of pressure. Using a stylet to break up a clog can cause an esophageal or gastric mucosa tear. Efforts should be undertaken to dislodge the clog before pulling the tube and inserting another.

Nursing

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