What action during intermittent tube feedings via an NG tube should prompt a charge nurse to intervene?

Allowing a client to rest in a supine position during tube feedings can pose significant risks, as the supine position increases the potential for aspiration. Aspiration can occur when the contents of the stomach are not effectively managed during feeding, especially if the patient cannot protect their airway due to decreased level of consciousness or other factors.

Maintaining an appropriate position is critical during enteral feeding; the recommended position is usually sitting upright or at least at a 30 to 45-degree angle to minimize the risk of aspiration and facilitate proper digestion. If a client is in a supine position while receiving feeding, it could lead to complications such as pneumonia or airway obstruction.

In contrast, checking gastric residuals is a standard practice (which is what was done in the first scenario), flushing the tube post-feeding is a good practice to ensure patency and prevent clogging, and administering feeding via gravity is a common method in enteral nutrition management. Each of these actions aligns with safe feeding protocols, highlighting the importance of the client’s position during administration to avoid any adverse events.