NCLEX RN Practice Question

The correct answer is ensuring that the feeding tube is properly positioned in the stomach. This step prevents complications such as aspiration pneumonia, which can occur if the tube has migrated into the respiratory tract. Positioning verification methods include X-ray confirmation, aspirating gastric contents, or checking gastric pH. Other options, like preventing nausea or ensuring stomach emptying, may be part of care but do not address the critical need to confirm placement to avoid life-threatening complications. Similarly, verifying the feeding mixture is relevant but secondary to confirming placement for safety.