NCLEX RN Practice Question

Prior to administering a bolus feeding, the nurse should confirm the placement of the nasogastric (NG) tube to ensure it is positioned in the stomach or small intestine and not in the lungs, which could result in aspiration. Checking the residual volume is also important as it provides information about the client’s ability to tolerate the feeding. Auscultating for bowel sounds ensures that the gastrointestinal system is functioning and capable of processing the feeding. Flushing the tube with water is performed after confirming placement to clear the tube before initiating the feeding; however, this should not be the first step.