Question

46 of 50
the nurse is caring for a client with a nasogastric tube. nasogastric tube irrigations are prescribed to be performed once every shift. the clients serum electrolyte result indicates a potassium level of 4.5 meq/l (4.5 mmol/l) and a sodium level of 132 meq/l (132 mmol/l). based on these laboratory findings, the nurse would select which solution to use for the nasogastric tube irrigation?
rationale, strategy, tip
answer options
1 tap water
2 sterile water
3 distilled water
4 sodium chloride

Explanation:

The normal sodium level is \(135 - 145\ mEq/L\). The client has hyponatremia (\(132\ mEq/L\)). Tap water, sterile water, and distilled water are hypotonic. When used for nasogastric tube irrigation, they can cause further dilution of sodium (as they can be absorbed and lower sodium concentration further). Sodium chloride (normal saline, which is isotonic) is used for irrigation in case of hyponatremia as it does not cause further dilution of sodium.

Answer:

1. Sodium chloride