The nurse is caring for a patient who develops difficulty swallowing and has a permanent gastric feeding tube inserted. What nursing action would be most helpful to prevent aspiration during feedings?

A. Elevate head of bed at least 30 degrees: Elevating the head of the bed during and after feedings reduces the risk of aspiration by allowing gravity to assist gastric emptying. B. Ask the physician to order daily x-rays: X-rays are used to confirm placement, not to prevent aspiration. C. Check placement of the tube hourly: Placement should be checked before each feeding, not hourly unless continuous feed is running. D. Administer careful oral care daily: While oral care is important, it does not prevent aspiration during tube feeding.