Before administering tube feeding to a client with an NG tube, what should the nurse do?

Before administering tube feeding to a client with a nasogastric (NG) tube, it is essential for the nurse to test the pH of gastric aspirate. This step is crucial for confirming the placement of the NG tube. By checking the pH, the nurse can determine if the tube is correctly positioned in the stomach rather than in the lungs or intestines, reducing the risk of complications such as aspiration pneumonia. Typically, gastric contents have a pH of 0 to 4, while intestinal contents have a higher pH, usually above 6.

Ensuring proper tube placement is a priority, as incorrect placement can lead to serious health issues if feeding is administered. The practice of testing the pH helps to safeguard the client's well-being and ensures that the feeding process can proceed safely.

Warming the feeding solution, while sometimes beneficial for comfort, is not a critical step before administration. Placing the client in a supine position isn’t appropriate; the client should be in a semi-Fowler's or Fowler's position to prevent aspiration during feeding. Checking for bowel sounds may provide information on gastrointestinal function, but it is not a definitive measure for confirming the tube's placement prior to feeding.