A client had a stroke and is now being tube-fed. An important intervention the nurse should include in the care plan related to fluid and electrolyte balance is to
A) consult with a dietitian about providing sufficient calories.
B) check the sodium concentration of the formula.
C) prevent too-rapid infusion by using a feeding pump.
D) provide 1 ml of water per 1 kilocalorie of formula.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Many tube-feeding formulae are hypertonic. In order to prevent dehydration, the nurse must provide water boluses with them. The appropriate amount is 1 ml of water per every 1 kilocalorie of feeding. Consulting with the dietitian is important but not specifically related to fluid and electrolyte balance. A feeding pump should be used for continuous feedings; however, many feedings are given by boluses.

A Client Had a Stroke and Is Now Being Tube-Fed