A nurse is caring for a client in a geriatric unit. Exhibits For each client finding below, indicate if the finding is a best practice for managing enteral feeding tube safety or potential risk. Each finding may be associated with more than one category.

Rationale: Ignoring cuff pressure during feeding: Failure to monitor cuff pressure can increase the risk of aspiration or injury to the trachea if the cuff is underinflated or overinflated. Maintaining appropriate cuff pressure is critical for airway protection in clients with feeding tubes. Checking tube placement before each feeding: Verifying placement reduces the risk of feeding into the lungs, preventing aspiration and ensuring proper nutrition delivery. Head of bed elevation at 30 degrees: Maintaining the head of the bed elevated decreases the likelihood of reflux and aspiration, which is essential for enteral feeding safety. Monitoring for signs of aspiration: Observing for coughing, choking, or changes in respiratory status allows early intervention to prevent respiratory complications during tube feeding.