Editing Nursing Skills and Procedures – LPN Flashcards (section)

== Enteral Feeding ==

;What is the most important aspiration precaution during tube feeding?
:Elevate the head of the bed 30 to 45 degrees during the feeding and for at least 30 to 60 minutes afterward.

;How much water is used to flush a feeding tube and when?
:About 30 mL of water before and after each feeding and each medication, between medications, and every four to six hours during continuous feeding. Warm water clears and prevents clogs; juice and soda do not.

;Which medications must never be crushed for administration through a feeding tube?
:Enteric-coated, sustained-release, and extended-release forms. Give medications one at a time in liquid form when available, and never add them directly to the formula bag.

;What is the first action if a client coughs, chokes, or desaturates during a tube feeding?
:Stop the feeding immediately, turn the client to the side, suction as needed, apply oxygen, and notify the registered nurse.