The nurse is caring for a patient who has a perforated esophagus as a result of a bullet wound to the neck. Which of the following interventions is the nurse most likely to implement in order to meet this patient's needs for nutrition and hydration?

Question

A) Administering fluids and nutrients parenterally until the wound is closed.
B) Providing enteral nutrition via a nasogastric tube for a minimum of 30 days.
C) Administering feedings via a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube.
D) Maintaining the patient in Fowler's position when offering fluids to minimize reflux.

Answer 1

Ans: A
Feedback: The patient with a perforated esophagus is likely to have a nasogastric tube inserted; however, its purpose is not related to feeding. It is inserted to enable suction to decrease the amount of gastric juice that could potentially reflux into the esophagus and mediastinum. Typically, parenteral nutrition is required. Parenteral feeding is preferred to gastrostomy feedings. Reflux can occur following PEG tube feedings. The patient is generally NPO; therefore, clear liquids would not be offered. The patient's position should be adjusted for comfort; however, high-Fowler's position is not mandated.