During insertion of a nasogastric (NG) tube, the patient begins to cough and gag. Which intervention should the nurse implement for the patient's benefit?
a. Withdraw the tube slightly and ask the patient to swallow.
b. Stop the procedure, anchor the tube, and request an x-ray film.
c. Tell the patient that the gagging will pass, and advance the tube.
d. Remove the tube and allow the patient to regain composure.
A
Coughing and gagging during NG tube insertion are expected; thus the nurse is prepared to manage the patient's distress. The nurse withdraws the NG tube slightly, provides water, and asks the patient to sip water or swallow to facilitate passage of the tube. This benefits the patient by implementing the prescription. The nurse avoids leaving the NG tube in the area that is caus-ing gagging and coughing because he or she wants to help the patient avoid these as much as possible and complete the procedure. To display caring and concern, the nurse avoids just com-menting that the gagging will pass and provides meaningful, facilitative instructions. He or she avoids removing the tube because the patient will have to feel the burning sensation of NG tube passage through the nose.
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