The most appropriate technique to be used by the nurse for gravity tube feeding is:

Appeared in: IGNOU PB Bsc Nsg.Entrance-2026

Explanation

For gravity tube feeding, the feeding bag should be hung approximately 12 inches (1 foot or 30 cm) above the stomach.
This specific height allows gravity to facilitate a slow, controlled flow of the formula.
A gradual infusion rate is crucial to prevent rapid gastric distention, which can lead to complications like cramping, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Option B: While feeding would proceed with a residual volume of 25 mL, this is not the key clinical threshold for decision-making. The focus is on identifying high residuals that indicate intolerance or delayed gastric emptying.
Option C: Placing a client in a lateral position during tube feeding increases the risk of regurgitation and pulmonary aspiration. The correct position is with the head of the bed elevated 30 to 45 degrees.
Option D: Administering cold formula directly from the refrigerator can cause gastric cramping, discomfort, and diarrhea.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Knowing Enteral Nutrition Administration helps nurses interpret findings accurately and avoid errors in routine assessment, medication administration, and patient teaching.
Proper tube feeding technique is a fundamental nursing skill critical for patient safety, preventing complications like aspiration pneumonia, which can be fatal.
Nurses must always verify tube placement, assess for feeding tolerance by checking gastric residuals, and maintain proper patient positioning before, during, and after feeding.
What if? If a patient on a continuous feeding needs to be repositioned flat for a bed linen change, the nurse must pause the feeding pump first and resume it only after the patient's head is re-elevated to at least 30 degrees to minimize aspiration risk.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core topic of the question, which is the correct procedure for 'gravity tube feeding'.
Analyze each option based on established nursing principles for enteral nutrition.
Evaluate the height for the feeding bag: '1 foot above' is a standard height for gravity flow.
Evaluate the residual volume: 'less than 25 ml' is a safe value, but is it the most important rule? The rule is about high residuals, making this option less of a core technique.
Evaluate patient positioning: 'left lateral' is incorrect; semi-Fowler's is the standard to prevent aspiration.
Evaluate formula temperature: 'refrigerated' is incorrect; room temperature is required to prevent cramping.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nursing Fundamentals Taylor p. 523-525

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Potter Perry 12e Part 5 p. 203-205

E6 Pharmacology Nursing Lilley 11e Part 3 p. 233-235

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