Oregon Certified Nursing Assistant State Practice Exam

What is a nursing assistant’s duty regarding tube feedings?

1. Inserting the tubes

2. Doing the feedings

3. Observing the feeding and reporting problems

4. Cleaning the tubes

The correct answer is: Observing the feeding and reporting problems

A nursing assistant's primary responsibility regarding tube feedings is to observe the feeding process and report any problems that may arise. This includes monitoring the patient's comfort, ensuring that the feeding is administered as prescribed, and watching for any signs of complications, such as aspiration, discomfort, or changes in the patient’s condition. By being attentive and vigilant, nursing assistants play a crucial role in maintaining patient safety and well-being during tube feedings. Inserting the tubes is typically a task that requires specialized training and is done by nurses or other healthcare professionals. The actual feeding, while it may seem like a task that nursing assistants could perform, typically requires a more skilled assessment of the patient’s condition and needs. Cleaning the tubes is also a more technical task that may fall outside the scope of practice for nursing assistants, as it often involves sterilization procedures best handled by nurses or specialized staff. Thus, the focus for nursing assistants should be on observation and reporting to ensure effective and safe care.