Fundamentals Question #37

Question

What intervention should the nurse question for a patient whose gag reflex has not yet returned after surgery?

Answers

1. Pureed diet after the gag reflex has returned
   • Rationale:
2. Order a swallowing study if the gag reflex does not return
   • Rationale:
3. Orders to resume a regular diet
   • Rationale:
4. Maintain NPO status until the gag reflex has returned
   • Rationale:

Overview

Explanation

The correct answer is C. The patient should not receive anything by mouth until the gag reflex has returned. The patient can be started on a pureed diet after the gag reflex has returned. It is normal to order a swallowing study when a patient cannot swallow properly or the gag reflex is absent. It is appropriate to maintain NPO status until the gag reflex returns.

Learning Outcomes

Test Taking Tip

Video Rationale