A nurse is caring for Mr. Kline, a 56-year-old client who was admitted because of esophageal cancer. A gastrostomy tube (PEG) was inserted six weeks ago. During assessment, the nurse notes reddish color and swelling around the insertion site. The most appropriate action of the nurse is to:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Since these findings suggest irritation or inflammation of the insertion site, the appropriate action of the nurse is to notify the physician immediately. The insertion site of the PEG may be irritated because of constant contact with leaking gastric acid, exposure to feeding formula, or infection due to poor PEG care. To prevent this, the nurse should always do proper PEG care. Options C and D are incorrect; the nurse shouldn't attempt to manage this condition independently.

A Nurse Is Caring for Mr