During treatment of a patient with a Minnesota balloon tamponade for bleeding esophageal varices, which nursing action will be included in the plan of care?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The most common complication of balloon tamponade is aspiration pneumonia. In addition, if the gastric balloon ruptures, the esophageal balloon may slip upward and occlude the airway. Coughing increases the pressure on the varices and increases the risk for bleeding. The health care provider inserts the tube and verifies the position. The esophageal balloon is deflated every 8 to 12 hours to avoid necrosis, but if the gastric balloon is deflated, the esophageal balloon may occlude the airway.

During Treatment of a Patient with a Minnesota Balloon Tamponade