The nurse observes medication administration through an enteral feeding tube. Which actions require follow-up? Highlight the actions that can alter drug delivery or create a tubing error.
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Choose your responses, then check the answer.
Explanation
Crushing an extended-release tablet, mixing medications into formula, and using a parenteral syringe require follow-up. Review each dosage form, give medications separately, flush appropriately, and use enteral-only equipment.
Quick answer Highlight crushing an extended-release tablet, mixing all medications into the formula, and using a parenteral syringe. These actions can destroy controlled release, create drug-formula interactions or tube blockage, and enable a wrong-route connection.
Why this is correct A feeding tube changes how oral medication reaches the gastrointestinal tract, so each product needs pharmacy review for formulation, compatibility, and tube location. Extended-release products generally cannot be crushed, medications are delivered separately rather than mixed into formula, and enteral syringes reduce misconnections. Flushing before, between, and after doses supports tube patency and complete delivery.[2][3]
Easy analogy or mental picture Picture the tube as a narrow one-way lane. Each prepared medication travels separately with a water rinse between vehicles; a crushed controlled-release product or mixed formula creates an unsafe load. The picture explains separation but not product-specific compatibility.
Memory hook Right product, one at a time, enteral syringe, flush between.
NCLEX decision rule When medication is ordered through a feeding tube, think formulation and route compatibility; check tube position, dosage form, pharmacy directions, separate dosing, flush orders, and enteral-only connectors before administration.
Why the other choices are wrong Verifying position, stopping feeding, using an approved liquid, giving medications separately, flushing between doses, and restarting as ordered preserve drug delivery and tube patency. These steps do not remove the need to check product-specific holding instructions.
References
[1]
NCSBN: 2026 NCLEX-RN Test PlanNational Council of State Boards of Nursing
[2]
ASPEN: Safe Practices for Enteral Nutrition TherapyAmerican Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition
[3]
ISMP: Safe Medication Administration Through Feeding TubesInstitute for Safe Medication Practices