Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 76%
Simulated
A nurse is caring for a client who has an NG tube set to low-intermittent suction for gastric decompression. The nurse observes that the NG tube is not draining. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
The correct answer is B: Inject 10 mL of air into the vent lumen. Injecting air into the vent lumen can help to clear any blockage in the NG tube and facilitate drainage. This action creates pressure within the tube, potentially dislodging any obstruction. Lowering the head of the client's bed to 15 degrees (Choice A) may help prevent aspiration but will not address the issue of the tube not draining. Placing the NG tube to high suction (Choice C) can be harmful and is not indicated for gastric decompression. Connecting the air vent to the suction (Choice D) would not resolve the drainage issue and can interfere with the functioning of the NG tube.