If a patient receiving a bolus feed via NG tube exhibits coughing and aspiration risk, the nurse should:

If a patient receiving a bolus feed via NG tube exhibits coughing and aspiration risk, the nurse should:

• A. Continue the administration at the same rate
• B. Discontinue the administration of the bolus feeding
• C. Pause the feeding to check the tube placement
• D. Slow the rate and reassess

Answer: (B)

When a patient with an NG tube shows coughing or signs of aspiration risk, the priority is to protect the airway. Bolus feeds deliver a large volume quickly, which increases the chance that contents can be aspirated if the patient cannot protect the airway. Stopping the bolus feeding immediately halts further delivery and reduces the immediate risk of aspiration. After stopping, reassess the situation: elevate the head of the bed, monitor breathing, verify the tube’s placement and patency, and involve the care team to decide whether to resume feeding and, if so, how (often at a slower rate or with a continuous feeding approach and closer monitoring) rather than continuing a bolus.

When a patient with an NG tube shows coughing or signs of aspiration risk, the priority is to protect the airway. Bolus feeds deliver a large volume quickly, which increases the chance that contents can be aspirated if the patient cannot protect the airway. Stopping the bolus feeding immediately halts further delivery and reduces the immediate risk of aspiration. After stopping, reassess the situation: elevate the head of the bed, monitor breathing, verify the tube’s placement and patency, and involve the care team to decide whether to resume feeding and, if so, how (often at a slower rate or with a continuous feeding approach and closer monitoring) rather than continuing a bolus.