A patient has a gastrostomy tube that has been placed to drain stomach contents by low intermittent suction. What is the nurse's priority during this aspect of the patient's care?

A) Measure and record drainage.
B) Monitor drainage for change in color.
C) Titrate the suction every hour.
D) Feed the patient via the G tube as ordered.


Ans: A
Feedback:
This drainage should be measured and recorded because it is a significant indicator of GI function. The nurse should indeed monitor the color of the output, but fluid balance is normally the priority. Frequent titration of the suction should not be necessary and feeding is contraindicated if the G tube is in place for drainage.

Nursing

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