The Client with Esophageal Varices Has a Sengstaken-Blakemore Tube in Place

question 26

Multiple Choice

The client with esophageal varices has a Sengstaken-Blakemore tube in place for esophageal tamponade. As a measure to prevent aspiration of saliva, the nurse would

• A) assist the client to cough and spit saliva into an emesis basin.
• B) completely deflate the esophageal balloon every 30 minutes.
• C) remove saliva through the fourth lumen.
• D) suction saliva accumulation with a nasogastric tube.

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Definitions:

Reticular Formation

A network of nerve pathways in the brainstem involved in consciousness and alertness.

Arousal Control

The process of managing the physiological and psychological state of being alert or stimulated, often in relation to performance in stressful or demanding situations.

Physical Coordination

The ability to move different parts of the body smoothly and efficiently to achieve a particular action or task.

Cerebellum

The part of the brain at the back of the skull in vertebrates, which coordinates and regulates muscular activity.