To insert an NG tube for a client who has a bowel obstruction, what should the nurse do first?

To insert an NG tube for a client who has a bowel obstruction, what should the nurse do first?

• A. Give the client a glass of water
• B. Assist the client in a sitting position
• C. Explain the procedure to the client
• D. Measure the length of tubing to be inserted

Answer: (C)

The first step is to explain the procedure to the client. Before an invasive action like inserting an NG tube, you need to obtain informed cooperation by describing what will be done, why it’s needed, and what sensations or risks to expect. This helps the patient understand, ask questions, and consent (even if consent is implied by allowing the procedure). Once the patient is informed, you can move on to the practical steps—positioning the patient, measuring the tubing, and then the insertion itself. The other options aren’t appropriate as the initial action: giving water may be unsafe if the patient is NPO or at risk for aspiration, and the actual positioning or measuring are actions that follow the explanation and consent.

The first step is to explain the procedure to the client. Before an invasive action like inserting an NG tube, you need to obtain informed cooperation by describing what will be done, why it’s needed, and what sensations or risks to expect. This helps the patient understand, ask questions, and consent (even if consent is implied by allowing the procedure). Once the patient is informed, you can move on to the practical steps—positioning the patient, measuring the tubing, and then the insertion itself. The other options aren’t appropriate as the initial action: giving water may be unsafe if the patient is NPO or at risk for aspiration, and the actual positioning or measuring are actions that follow the explanation and consent.