Assessing Enteral Tube Placement

Questions and Answers

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?

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?

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?

If the external tube length has changed Signup and view all the answers

When should a radiograph be obtained concerning enteral tube placement?

If there is doubt about the tube's location Signup and view all the answers

What can occur if medications or feedings are administered through an incorrectly placed enteral tube?

Life-threatening aspiration pneumonia Signup and view all the answers

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.

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.