Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the primary purpose of verifying enteral tube placement after insertion?
What is the primary purpose of verifying enteral tube placement after insertion?
- To confirm it is not placed in the trachea (correct)
- To document the procedure in the medical record
- To avoid complications from feeding
- To ensure the patient is comfortable
How should the verification point on the enteral tube be documented?
How should the verification point on the enteral tube be documented?
- Using adhesive tape or a permanent marker (correct)
- By taking a photo of the tube placement
- By marking it with a pen on the patient
- Writing it on a whiteboard in the patient's room
What bedside tests can be performed if there is suspicion of tube dislocation?
What bedside tests can be performed if there is suspicion of tube dislocation?
- Blood pressure measurement
- Ultrasound examination
- Visual inspection and pH testing of aspirate (correct)
- Chest-X-ray evaluation
What must nurses evaluate at the start of each shift regarding the enteral tube?
What must nurses evaluate at the start of each shift regarding the enteral tube?
When should a radiograph be obtained concerning enteral tube placement?
When should a radiograph be obtained concerning enteral tube placement?
What can occur if medications or feedings are administered through an incorrectly placed enteral tube?
What can occur if medications or feedings are administered through an incorrectly placed enteral tube?
Study Notes
Tube Placement Verification
- Incorrect placement of enteral tubes can lead to life-threatening aspiration pneumonia.
- Verification of tube placement is mandatory immediately after insertion, ideally with X-ray imaging.
- An X-ray shows correct placement in the stomach, indicated by a red arrow, and distinguishes it from an endotracheal tube in the trachea.
Documentation and Marking
- After X-ray confirmation, mark the tube with adhesive tape or a permanent marker at the entry point (nares or abdominal wall).
- Document the marked entry point measurement in the medical record.
- Communicate the measurement during handoff reports to ensure continuity of care.
Regular Evaluation
- Nurses must assess tube position at the beginning of each shift by checking for any changes in incremental markings or external tube length.
- If discrepancies are observed, bedside tests such as aspirate visualization or pH testing can determine tube dislocation.
- In case of uncertainty about tube positioning, obtaining a radiograph is recommended for verification.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the proper placement of enteral tubes and the implications of incorrect positioning. This quiz will cover assessment methods, particularly the verification of tube placement using X-ray imaging to prevent complications like aspiration pneumonia.
