A nurse is preparing to administer three medications to a client who is receiving continuous enteral feedings through an NG tube. Which of the following actions is appropriate for the nurse to take?

Rationale: A. Gently push the syringe plunger to administer medication: Medications given via NG tube should be administered slowly and gently using a syringe to avoid tube damage, aspiration, or sudden changes in gastric pressure. This technique ensures safe and effective delivery of the medication. B. Dissolve the medications together: Mixing multiple medications can cause chemical interactions or precipitation, which can block the NG tube or reduce medication efficacy. Each medication should be dissolved and administered separately. C. Flush the NG tube with 5 mL of cold tap water after administration: Flushing is necessary to maintain tube patency, but 5 mL is insufficient for continuous feedings. Typically, 15–30 mL of warm or room-temperature water is used to prevent tube occlusion. D. Add medication directly to the enteral feeding: Adding medication to the feeding can alter the composition, affect absorption, and create a risk for tube blockage. Medications should be given separately with flushing before and after administration.