A patient who suffered a stroke had an NG tube inserted to facilitate feeding shortly after admission
The patient has since become comatose and the patient's family asks the nurse why the physician is recommending the removal of the patient's NG tube and the insertion of a gastrostomy tube. What is the nurse's best response?
A) It eliminates the risk for infection.
B) Feeds can be infused at a faster rate.
C) Regurgitation and aspiration are less likely.
D) It allows caregivers to provide personal hygiene more easily.
Ans: C
Feedback:
Gastrostomy is preferred over NG feedings in the patient who is comatose because the gastroesophageal sphincter remains intact, making regurgitation and aspiration less likely than with NG feedings. Both tubes carry a risk for infection; this change in care is not motivated by the possibility of faster infusion or easier personal care.
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