A nurse is caring for a client with a nasogastric (NG) tube. What assessment finding would the nurse report to the provider immediately?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The mucosal lining of the stomach can be traumatized if it gets sucked up against the suction ports of the NG tube. Most NG tubes (NG sump tubes) have a second lumen, the airport or "pigtail" that prevents this from occurring. Because bloody drainage would indicate injury, the nurse would report this finding to the provider. Absence of bowel sounds may or may not be expected based on the client's condition. NG tubes are not comfortable. For dry oral mucous membranes, the nurse would provide or delegate more frequent oral care and lip balm.

A Nurse Is Caring for a Client with a Nasogastric