Gastric Residual Volume Checks (GRV)

Question 1

May be useful in some pt populations

Answer 1

-Critically ill surgery pts
-Critically ill trauma pts
-Head injury
-Postop abdominal surgery
-Obtunded/vegetative state

Question 2

First

Answer 2

Put pt on right side (starts the digestive system) for 20min while maintaining pts backrest elevation of > 30 degrees
-Check GRV per ordered frequency
D/C order for GRV checks after 48-72hrs if GRV <500mL and no abdominal signs present

Question 3

S/S of intolerances

Answer 3

-abd distention
-high NG output
-high gastric residuals
-reduced passages of flatus (gas) and stool
-complaints of discomfort
-diarrhea
-abnormal abd radiographs