A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a bowel surgery and has an NG tube connected to low intermittent suction. Which of the following assessment findings should indicate to the nurse that the NG tube might not be functioning properly?
A.
Wall suction set to 60 mm Hg
B.
Drainage fluid is greenish-yellow
C.
Aspirate pH of 3
D.
Abdominal rigidity
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is D. Abdominal rigidity.
Explanation:
After a bowel surgery, monitoring the function of a nasogastric (NG) tube is critical to ensure it is effectively decompressing the stomach and removing gastric contents. The NG tube is often connected to low intermittent suction, which helps to prevent postoperative complications by draining stomach secretions and reducing gastrointestinal pressure. The following assessment findings can help determine if the NG tube is functioning properly:
- A. Wall suction set to 60 mm Hg: This setting is generally appropriate for low intermittent suction, which helps prevent damage to the stomach lining and maintains effective drainage. If the suction is set correctly, this finding alone does not necessarily indicate a malfunctioning NG tube.
- B. Drainage fluid is greenish-yellow: This color of drainage is normal and indicates that the NG tube is draining bile and gastric fluids. The color can vary from green to yellow, depending on the bile content. This finding typically suggests that the NG tube is functioning correctly.
- C. Aspirate pH of 3: Gastric aspirate typically has a pH of 1 to 3, which is acidic. This pH level is consistent with normal gastric contents, indicating that the NG tube is likely in the stomach and functioning correctly.
- D. Abdominal rigidity: Abdominal rigidity is a concerning sign that might indicate an issue with the NG tube. This finding can suggest that there is a potential obstruction, perforation, or other postoperative complication such as ileus (a lack of movement in the intestines). When the NG tube is not functioning properly, it may not be draining adequately, which can lead to increased abdominal pressure, rigidity, and discomfort.
In summary, abdominal rigidity is the most alarming sign among the options provided and indicates that there could be a problem with the NG tube’s functionality or the postoperative recovery process. Immediate assessment and intervention are needed to address potential complications and ensure the NG tube is functioning as intended.