ATI Basic Care and Comfort Practice Test

In the context of a client with abdominal distention and an NG (nasogastric) tube, the nurse's priority action should indeed be to check the suction equipment to ensure it is functioning properly. The presence of abdominal distention can indicate that the gastrointestinal tract is not effectively decompressed, which is often a primary function of the NG tube. If the suction is not working, accumulated air and fluid can lead to further complications such as increased discomfort, delayed recovery, or even risk of aspiration.

Proper function of the NG tube is crucial in managing conditions that require gastric decompression, such as bowel obstruction, post-operative recovery, or severe nausea and vomiting. Ensuring that the suction is active can help alleviate the distention by drawing out excess air and fluid from the stomach, thereby addressing the immediate concern for the client.

In contrast, assessing pain levels, providing emotional support, or administering medications are also important nursing actions, but they take secondary priority. While pain assessment is crucial to understanding the client's comfort status, it does not directly address the potentially urgent situation of unmanaged abdominal distention. Emotional support can help alleviate anxiety but does not resolve the physiological issue at hand. Administering medications may be necessary, but the immediate need is to ensure that