NCLEX-RN (Registered Nurse) Practice Exam · Question
A nurse is caring for a client with a nasogastric (NG) tube after gastric surgery. The nurse notes abdominal distension and the client complains of nausea. The NG tube is draining minimal fluid. What is the nurse's first action?
Abdominal distension and nausea with minimal NG drainage suggest a clogged or improperly positioned tube. The priority is to assess and restore patency by irrig
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Question: A nurse is caring for a client with a nasogastric (NG) tube after gastric surgery. The nurse notes abdominal distension and the client complains of nausea. The NG tube is draining minimal fluid. What is the nurse's first action?
Answer options:
- Administer an antiemetic as prescribed.
- Increase the suction setting on the NG tube. ✅ Irrigate the NG tube with 30 mL of normal saline.
- Place the client in a high-Fowler's position.
Correct answer: Irrigate the NG tube with 30 mL of normal saline.
Explanation: Abdominal distension and nausea with minimal NG drainage suggest a clogged or improperly positioned tube. The priority is to assess and restore patency by irrigating the NG tube with normal saline to prevent further complications like vomiting or aspiration.
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