Week 6 Content Flashcards
(78 cards)
Why must sterile asepsis be maintained when inserting drainage tubes?
Because closed cavities of the body are sterile and must remain so to prevent infection.
What happens if a sterile portal of entry contacts a non-sterile surface?
It immediately becomes non-sterile, increasing the risk of infection.
How should drainage tubes and collection bags be positioned?
Below the cavity being drained to allow gravity to promote fluid flow.
What should be avoided to ensure continuous drainage?
Kinks, coils, clamping without a doctor’s order, and allowing the patient to lie on the tubing.
Why should the site be cleansed before accessing a drainage tube?
To prevent microorganism introduction, reducing infection risk.
What determines whether fluid flows through a tube?
A pressure difference between the two ends of the tube.
How does the height of a liquid column affect flow rate?
A higher column increases pressure and speeds up flow, while a lower column slows it down.
How does tube diameter affect fluid flow?
A larger diameter increases flow rate, while a smaller diameter reduces it.
Why does tube length impact fluid flow?
Longer tubes create more friction, slowing down flow; shorter tubes allow faster flow.
What is viscosity, and how does it affect fluid flow?
Viscosity is a fluid’s resistance to flow; higher viscosity slows flow, while dilution or increased pressure can speed it up.
What are the 4 factors that affect the flow of fluid through tubes?
Viscosity, Diameter, Length, Pressure difference.
What is a nasogastric (NG) tube?
A flexible plastic tube inserted through the nostrils, down the nasopharynx, and into the stomach or upper small intestine.
How is NG tube placement confirmed before use?
With an X-ray.
What are the two main purposes of an NG tube?
- Deliver nutrients via a feeding pump. 2. Remove gastric contents.
Why are NG tubes used for feeding?
They help patients with swallowing difficulties or those needing extra nutrition.
How does an NG tube help remove gastric contents?
By draining the stomach through gravity or suction to prevent nausea, vomiting, and gastric distension or remove toxins.
How is an NG tube secured to prevent accidental removal?
It is fastened with a nose clip, taped, and pinned to the patient’s gown.
How can NG tubes cause discomfort, and what helps reduce it?
They irritate nasal mucosa; securing the tube and pinning it to the gown can reduce excess movement and discomfort.
Why do NG tube patients tend to mouth breathe, and what can help?
One nostril is blocked, causing dry mouth. Mouth care, rinsing with cold water/mouthwash, or sucking on ice chips (if allowed) can help.
What should you do if a patient with an NG tube experiences abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting?
Report it immediately, as the drainage flow may be obstructed and the tube might need irrigation.
Why should patients with an NG tube never lie completely flat?
It increases the risk of aspiration; the head of the bed should always be raised at least 30 degrees.
Why should an NG feeding tube be labeled?
To ensure proper identification and avoid misuse.
What is urinary catheterization?
The insertion of a catheter through the urethra into the bladder to drain urine.
When is urinary catheterization required?
- Acute urinary retention
- Monitoring intake/output
- Preoperative management
- Healing of sacral/perineal wounds in incontinent patients
- Prolonged bedrest
- End-of-life care