A nurse is caring for a patient who came to the emergency department with abdominal distention and is now on the medical-surgical unit with an NG tube in place to low gastric suction. The patient reports anxiety, discomfort, and a feeling of bloating. Which of the following actions is the nurse's priority?

Choice A rationale Abdominal distention, anxiety, discomfort, and bloating in a patient with an NG tube on low gastric suction suggest that the tube is not functioning correctly. The most immediate and priority action is to check for proper function and patency. The suction equipment may be disconnected, the canister may be full, or the tube itself may be kinked or clogged. Resolving the mechanical issue will relieve the patient's symptoms. Choice B rationale Irrigating a non-functioning NG tube with 100 mL of sterile water is an inappropriate volume and can cause further distention and discomfort. Standard practice for irrigating an NG tube is with a much smaller volume, typically 30 mL of normal saline, to prevent electrolyte imbalances and excessive gastric distention. This action would not address the root cause of the patient's symptoms and could be harmful. Choice C rationale Removing and reinserting the NG tube should only be done if other troubleshooting methods fail to restore function. This is an invasive procedure that can be uncomfortable for the patient and is not the first step in addressing a potential obstruction or equipment malfunction. A thorough assessment of the system should be performed before considering a reinsertion. Choice D rationale Requesting a prescription for an anxiety medication does not address the physiological cause of the patient's distress. The patient's anxiety and discomfort are likely a direct result of the unresolved abdominal distention and bloating. Treating the underlying physical cause by ensuring the NG tube is working correctly is the priority intervention to provide relief.