A nurse is caring for a client who has a nasogastric tube. The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following findings?

A nasogastric (NG) tube is used for gastric decompression, feeding, or medication administration, but it can also lead to significant fluid and electrolyte imbalances if gastric contents are continuously lost. Gastric secretions contain electrolytes such as sodium, chloride, and potassium, and prolonged suctioning can disrupt normal homeostasis. Careful monitoring is essential to detect complications early and prevent systemic imbalances. Electrolyte disturbances are among the most common risks associated with NG tube therapy. A. Constipation is not typically associated with nasogastric tube use; in fact, decreased oral intake may contribute to reduced bowel activity, but NG suction primarily affects upper gastrointestinal secretions rather than directly causing constipation. Other factors such as immobility or opioid use are more common causes of constipation in hospitalized clients. B. Fluid overload is unlikely in clients with an NG tube because gastric suctioning typically results in fluid loss rather than retention. These clients are more at risk for dehydration and electrolyte depletion rather than volume excess. Therefore, fluid overload is not the expected complication. C. Metabolic acidosis is not the primary acid-base imbalance associated with NG suctioning. Removing this acid through an NG tube leads to a loss of hydrogen ions, which causes the blood pH to rise. This results in metabolic alkalosis, not acidosis. Metabolic acidosis would be more common in conditions involving the loss of lower GI fluids (like severe diarrhea), which are rich in bicarbonate. D. Hyponatremia is a likely complication due to continuous loss of sodium-rich gastric secretions through the NG tube. This can lead to decreased serum sodium levels, causing symptoms such as confusion, weakness, and neuromuscular irritability. Careful monitoring of electrolyte levels is essential in clients with prolonged NG drainage.