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What is the initial action a nurse should take when there is leakage around a G-tube?
Change the G-tube
Ensure proper placement of the tube
Apply a new dressing
Use additional medications
The correct answer is: Ensure proper placement of the tube
When there is leakage around a G-tube, the initial action a nurse should take is to ensure the proper placement of the tube. Proper placement is critical because if the G-tube is dislodged or improperly positioned, it can lead to complications such as leakage of gastric contents, infection at the insertion site, or inadequate feeding. Assessing the tube's placement first allows the nurse to determine if there is an issue that needs to be addressed. For instance, if the G-tube has moved out of the stomach or into an incorrect position, simply changing the tube, applying a new dressing, or using medications would not effectively resolve the problem—it would not prevent further leakage or address the cause of the complications. Verifying the placement typically involves checking for aspirate consistency, measuring the length of the tube at the entry site, and possibly using radiographic confirmation if necessary. Once it has been confirmed that the tube is correctly positioned, further interventions, such as dressing changes or considering the need for a new tube, can be implemented as needed.